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CVE-2019-3842

HighPublished

In systemd before v242-rc4, it was discovered that pam_systemd does not properly sanitize the environment before using the XDG_SEAT variable. It is possible...

Published: Apr 9, 2019
Updated: Jun 9, 2025
Assigning CNA: redhat
Evidence observed: Apr 23, 2019

Primary CVSS

7.0/ 10High

nvd · CVSS 3.1

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

EPSS probability estimate

1.2%

Low · next 30 days

Percentile: 66.5%
Model date: Sep 21, 2026

EPSS is a statistical estimate, not a certainty or a measure of impact. Combine it with CVSS, KEV status, exposure and your environment.

Summary

In systemd before v242-rc4, it was discovered that pam_systemd does not properly sanitize the environment before using the XDG_SEAT variable. It is possible for an attacker, in some particular configurations, to set a XDG_SEAT environment variable which allows for commands to be checked against polkit policies using the "allow_active" element rather than "allow_any".

Sources

systemd - Lack of Seat Verification in PAM Module Permits Spoofing Active Session to polkitExploit
Google Security Research · linux · Apr 23, 2019

Responsible use

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