PatchTheCVECVE-2021-23355: This affects all versions of package ps-kill
CVE-2021-23355 is a medium-severity flaw (CVSS 5.6) affecting ps-kill. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
This affects all versions of package ps-kill. If (attacker-controlled) user input is given to the kill function, it is possible for an attacker to execute arbitrary commands. This is due to use of the child_process exec function without input sanitization in the index.js file. PoC (provided by reporter): var ps_kill = require('ps-kill'); ps_kill.kill('$(touch success)',function(){});
Why this priority
- Public exploit reference
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
No fix is published yet: follow the downgrade or mitigation steps.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 5.6 (Medium) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | High |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 1.2% (top 32%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-78 |
| Published | 2021-03-15 |
| 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-2021-23355?
ps-kill: mitigate or apply the listed mitigation. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2021-23355 being exploited?
CVE-2021-23355 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-2021-23355 affect?
CVE-2021-23355 affects ps-kill. Severity is medium (CVSS 5.6). This affects all versions of package ps-kill. If (attacker-controlled) user input is given to the kill function, it is possible for an attacker to execute arbitrary commands. This is due to use of the child_process exec function without inp
How urgent is CVE-2021-23355?
Priority 47/100. Public exploit reference; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action