PatchTheCVECVE-2020-5214: In NetHack before 3.6.5, detecting an unknown configuration file option can cause a buffer overflow resulting
CVE-2020-5214 is a medium-severity flaw (CVSS 5.0) affecting nethack. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
In NetHack before 3.6.5, detecting an unknown configuration file option can cause a buffer overflow resulting in a crash or remote code execution/privilege escalation. This vulnerability affects systems that have NetHack installed suid/sgid and shared systems that allow users to upload their own configuration files. Users should upgrade to NetHack 3.6.5.
Why this priority
- No elevated risk signals yet
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 5.0 (Medium) |
| Attack vector | Local |
| Attack complexity | High |
| Privileges needed | Low |
| User interaction | Required |
| EPSS exploit chance | 1.1% (top 35%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-120 |
| Published | 2020-01-28 |
| 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-2020-5214?
nethack: upgrade to 3.6.5. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2020-5214 being exploited?
CVE-2020-5214 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-2020-5214 affect?
CVE-2020-5214 affects nethack. Severity is medium (CVSS 5.0). In NetHack before 3.6.5, detecting an unknown configuration file option can cause a buffer overflow resulting in a crash or remote code execution/privilege escalation. This vulnerability affects systems that have NetHack installed suid/sgid
How urgent is CVE-2020-5214?
Priority 34/100. No elevated risk signals yet.
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