Critical Command Execution Vulnerability in Vim Package
Summary
RLSA-2026:11510: Important: vim security update. Affects vim versions < 2:8.2.2637-23.el9_7.3. Fixed in 2:8.2.2637-23.el9_7.3. 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 and extensibility. However, it has been found to have a significant security vulnerability that allows for arbitrary command execution through a modeline sandbox bypass, potentially compromising system integrity.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2026-34982, arises from a flaw in Vim's modeline feature, which allows users to specify editor settings within the text files. This flaw can be exploited to execute arbitrary commands, posing a severe risk to users who open files with malicious modelines. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to system resources and data breaches, making it critical for users to address this vulnerability promptly.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:8.2.2637-23.el9_7.3
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 workaround, users can disable modelines in Vim by adding the following line to their Vim configuration file (usually located at ~/.vimrc): 'set nomodeline'. This will prevent Vim from executing any commands specified in modelines, mitigating the risk until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The discovery of CVE-2026-34982 in the Vim package highlights the importance of maintaining updated software to protect against security vulnerabilities. Users are strongly encouraged to update their Vim installations to the patched version to safeguard their systems.
See every vulnerability recorded for vim →
FAQ
CVE-2026-34982 is a security vulnerability in the Vim text editor that allows for arbitrary command execution through a modeline sandbox bypass.
You can check if your version of Vim is affected by comparing it with the fixed version 2:8.2.2637-23.el9_7.3 or by using tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities.
Modelines are special lines in Vim that allow users to set editor options within the text files. They can be a source of security risks if not handled properly.
If you cannot update Vim immediately, you can disable modelines by adding 'set nomodeline' to your Vim configuration file to mitigate the risk.
Vulert monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json, allowing users to stay informed about potential risks.
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