Critical Security Flaws in Vim: Multiple Vulnerabilities Leading to Arbitrary Code Execution
Summary
RLSA-2026:47982: Important: vim security update. Affects vim versions < 2:8.2.2637-26.el9_8.13. Fixed in 2:8.2.2637-26.el9_8.13. How to fix ↓
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Background
Vim, short for Vi IMproved, is a highly configurable text editor built to enable efficient text editing. It is widely used by developers and system administrators for its powerful features, including syntax highlighting, multi-level undo, and extensive plugin support. However, recent vulnerabilities have been identified that could compromise the security of systems using Vim, particularly in the context of Python and PHP omni-completion functionalities.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerabilities in Vim include a denial of service due to a stack out-of-bounds write in the spell_soundfold_sofo() function, arbitrary code execution via malicious docstrings in Python omni-completion, and out-of-bounds write issues in the Spell File Word Count. Additionally, crafted PHP files and tags files can lead to arbitrary command execution. These vulnerabilities stem from improper handling of user input and memory management, posing significant risks to system integrity and data security.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:8.2.2637-26.el9_8.13
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update vimTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can disable omni-completion features in Vim to mitigate the risk of arbitrary code execution until the update is applied. This can be done by modifying the Vim configuration file (usually located at ~/.vimrc) and commenting out or removing any lines that enable omni-completion.
Conclusion
The identified vulnerabilities in Vim pose significant risks, including denial of service and arbitrary code execution. Users are strongly advised to update to the latest version to safeguard their systems. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further enhance security by providing real-time monitoring of vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
Vim is a text editor that enhances the capabilities of the original Vi editor, providing advanced features for efficient text manipulation.
The vulnerabilities include denial of service, arbitrary code execution via malicious docstrings, and out-of-bounds write issues.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
The CVSS score for these vulnerabilities is 7.8, indicating a high level of severity.
The best way to protect your system is to update Vim to the latest patched version as soon as possible.
References
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