Vulnerability Description
rsync before 3.5.0 contains a symlink following vulnerability that allows local attackers to overwrite arbitrary files by placing a symlink at a predictable output path such as --log-file, --write-batch, or daemon-mode log and statistics paths. Attackers can exploit rsync's failure to reject symlinks during ancillary file writes to redirect output to arbitrary filesystem locations, achieving local privilege escalation on installations where rsync runs with elevated privileges such as setuid or privileged daemon configurations.
CVSS Score
HIGH
Affected Products
| Vendor | Product | Versions |
|---|---|---|
| Samba | Rsync | < 3.5.0 |
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://github.com/RsyncProject/rsync/releases/tag/v3.5.0ProductRelease Notes
- https://github.com/RsyncProject/rsync/security/advisories/GHSA-g9f4-7q66-9582Vendor Advisory
- https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/rsync-symlink-following-arbitrary-file-overRelease NotesThird Party Advisory
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-53803?
CVE-2026-53803 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 7.8 (HIGH). rsync before 3.5.0 contains a symlink following vulnerability that allows local attackers to overwrite arbitrary files by placing a symlink at a predictable output path such as --log-file, --write-bat...
How severe is CVE-2026-53803?
CVE-2026-53803 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.8/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-53803?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Affected products include: Samba Rsync.