Critical Security Update for vim Packages: Command Injection and Arbitrary Code Execution Vulnerabilities
Summary
ALSA-2026:38510: Important: vim security update. Affects vim-X11 versions < 2:8.0.1763-27.el8_10. Fixed in 2:8.0.1763-27.el8_10. How to fix ↓
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Background
Vim (Vi IMproved) is a highly popular text editor that enhances the functionality of the original vi editor. It is widely used for programming and text editing due to its powerful features, including syntax highlighting, multi-level undo, and extensive plugin support. However, recent vulnerabilities have been identified that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or perform command injection through crafted inputs, posing significant security risks to users.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerabilities in vim stem from multiple issues, including command injection when decompressing .tgz archives (CVE-2026-46483), arbitrary code execution via crafted directory names (CVE-2026-47162), and through Python omni-completion (CVE-2026-52858). Additionally, crafted step-definition patterns can also lead to arbitrary code execution (CVE-2026-47167). These vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers to execute malicious code, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data breaches.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:8.0.1763-27.el8_10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update vim-X11Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users are advised to avoid using the vulnerable features of vim until the update is applied. This includes refraining from decompressing .tgz archives and using Python omni-completion until the security patch is installed.
Conclusion
In summary, the recent vulnerabilities in vim pose significant security risks that can lead to command injection and arbitrary code execution. Users are strongly encouraged to update their vim packages to the latest patched version to mitigate these risks. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and manage vulnerabilities in your software effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for vim-X11 →
FAQ
The main vulnerabilities include command injection during .tgz decompression and arbitrary code execution through crafted inputs.
You can check your vim version by running 'vim --version' in the terminal. If it is below 2:8.0.1763-27.el8_10, it is affected.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using a manifest file like package-lock.json.
If you cannot update immediately, avoid using the vulnerable features of vim as a temporary workaround.
More information can be found on the CVE pages listed in the references section of the security advisory.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for vim-X11.
