PatchTheCVECVE-2020-36394: pam_setquota.c in the pam_setquota module before 2020-05-29 for Linux-PAM allows local attackers to set their
CVE-2020-36394 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.0) affecting pam setquota. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
pam_setquota.c in the pam_setquota module before 2020-05-29 for Linux-PAM allows local attackers to set their quota on an arbitrary filesystem, in certain situations where the attacker's home directory is a FUSE filesystem mounted under /home.
Why this priority
- High severity
- Public exploit reference
- On your watchlist
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.0 (High) |
| Attack vector | Local |
| Attack complexity | High |
| Privileges needed | Low |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.3% (top 72%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Published | 2021-06-22 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-17 |
Last updated 2026-06-17 · 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-2020-36394?
pam setquota: upgrade to 2020-05-29. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2020-36394 being exploited?
CVE-2020-36394 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-2020-36394 affect?
CVE-2020-36394 affects pam setquota. Severity is high (CVSS 7.0). pam_setquota.c in the pam_setquota module before 2020-05-29 for Linux-PAM allows local attackers to set their quota on an arbitrary filesystem, in certain situations where the attacker's home directory is a FUSE filesystem mounted under /ho
How urgent is CVE-2020-36394?
Priority 42/100. High severity; Public exploit reference; On your watchlist