PatchTheCVECVE-2020-36657: uptimed before 0.4.6-r1 on Gentoo allows local users (with access to the uptimed user account) to gain root pr
CVE-2020-36657 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.8) affecting uptimed. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
uptimed before 0.4.6-r1 on Gentoo allows local users (with access to the uptimed user account) to gain root privileges by creating a hard link within the /var/spool/uptimed directory, because there is an unsafe chown -R call.
Why this priority
- High severity
- Public exploit reference
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.8 (High) |
| Attack vector | Local |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | Low |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.4% (top 65%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-59 |
| Published | 2023-01-26 |
| 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-2020-36657?
uptimed: upgrade to 0.4.6. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2020-36657 being exploited?
CVE-2020-36657 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-2020-36657 affect?
CVE-2020-36657 affects uptimed. Severity is high (CVSS 7.8). uptimed before 0.4.6-r1 on Gentoo allows local users (with access to the uptimed user account) to gain root privileges by creating a hard link within the /var/spool/uptimed directory, because there is an unsafe chown -R call.
How urgent is CVE-2020-36657?
Priority 41/100. High severity; Public exploit reference