CVE-2010-3853

CVE-2010-3853 is a medium-severity vulnerability in Linux-pam with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 6.9. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low.

Key facts

Description

pam_namespace.c in the pam_namespace module in Linux-PAM (aka pam) before 1.1.3 uses the environment of the invoking application or service during execution of the namespace.init script, which might allow local users to gain privileges by running a setuid program that relies on the pam_namespace PAM check, as demonstrated by the sudo program.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2010-3853?
pam_namespace.c in the pam_namespace module in Linux-PAM (aka pam) before 1.1.3 uses the environment of the invoking application or service during execution of the namespace.init script, which might allow local users to gain privileges by running a setuid program that relies on the pam_namespace PAM check, as demonstrated by the sudo program.
How severe is CVE-2010-3853?
CVE-2010-3853 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 6.9, rated medium severity.
Is CVE-2010-3853 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 0% (33rd percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2010-3853?
CVE-2010-3853 primarily affects Linux-pam. In total, 24 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2010-3853?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround.
When was CVE-2010-3853 published?
CVE-2010-3853 was published on 2011-01-24 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (24)

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