PatchTheCVECVE-2006-5659: PAM_extern before 0.2 sends a password as a command line argument, which allows local users to obtain the pass
CVE-2006-5659 is a low-severity flaw (CVSS 2.1) affecting pam extern. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
PAM_extern before 0.2 sends a password as a command line argument, which allows local users to obtain the password by listing the command line arguments, such as ps. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
Why this priority
- No elevated risk signals yet
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 2.1 (Low) |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.3% (top 76%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Published | 2006-11-03 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-16 |
Last updated 2026-06-16 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Am I affected?
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2006-5659?
pam extern: upgrade to newer than 0.1. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2006-5659 being exploited?
CVE-2006-5659 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2006-5659 affect?
CVE-2006-5659 affects pam extern. Severity is low (CVSS 2.1). PAM_extern before 0.2 sends a password as a command line argument, which allows local users to obtain the password by listing the command line arguments, such as ps. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obta
How urgent is CVE-2006-5659?
Priority 13/100. No elevated risk signals yet.