PatchTheCVECVE-2021-31154: pleaseedit in please before 0.4 uses predictable temporary filenames in /tmp and the target directory
CVE-2021-31154 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.8) affecting pleaseedit. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
pleaseedit in please before 0.4 uses predictable temporary filenames in /tmp and the target directory. This allows a local attacker to gain full root privileges by staging a symlink attack.
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 | 0.5% (top 59%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-668 |
| Published | 2021-05-27 |
| 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-2021-31154?
pleaseedit: upgrade to 0.4. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2021-31154 being exploited?
CVE-2021-31154 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-2021-31154 affect?
CVE-2021-31154 affects pleaseedit. Severity is high (CVSS 7.8). pleaseedit in please before 0.4 uses predictable temporary filenames in /tmp and the target directory. This allows a local attacker to gain full root privileges by staging a symlink attack.
How urgent is CVE-2021-31154?
Priority 42/100. High severity; Public exploit reference