Remote Command Execution Vulnerability in Lsyncd Package

lsyncd Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

05/12/2014
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

DEBIAN-CVE-2014-8990: default-rsyncssh.lua in Lsyncd 2.1.5 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in a filename. Affects lsyncd versions < 2.1.5-2. Fixed in 2.1.5-2. How to fix ↓

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Background

Lsyncd (Live Syncing Daemon) is a synchronization tool that uses rsync and ssh to synchronize files and directories between local and remote systems. It is widely used for real-time file synchronization and backup tasks. The package is known for its efficiency and ease of use, but it has been found to contain a vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2014-8990, exists in the default-rsyncssh.lua script of Lsyncd version 2.1.5 and earlier. It allows remote attackers to exploit shell metacharacters in filenames, leading to arbitrary command execution on the server. This can result in unauthorized access, data manipulation, or complete system compromise, depending on the attacker's intent and the privileges of the Lsyncd process.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.1.5-2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade lsyncd

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Workaround

As a temporary workaround, you can restrict access to the Lsyncd service or implement strict input validation to sanitize filenames before processing them. This can help prevent the execution of malicious commands.

Conclusion

The CVE-2014-8990 vulnerability in Lsyncd poses a significant risk by allowing remote command execution through improper handling of filenames. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to mitigate this risk and ensure the security of their systems.

See every vulnerability recorded for lsyncd →

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FAQ

CVE-2014-8990 is a vulnerability in Lsyncd that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands through shell metacharacters in filenames.

Lsyncd versions 2.1.5 and earlier are affected by this vulnerability.

You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.

The potential impacts include unauthorized access, data manipulation, and complete system compromise, depending on the attacker's privileges.

Yes, a patch is available in version 2.1.5-2 and later of the Lsyncd package.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for lsyncd.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.1.5-2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade lsyncd

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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