PatchTheCVECVE-2022-44542: lesspipe before 2.06 allows attackers to execute code via Perl Storable (pst) files, because of deserialized o
CVE-2022-44542 is a critical-severity flaw (CVSS 9.8) affecting lesspipe. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
lesspipe before 2.06 allows attackers to execute code via Perl Storable (pst) files, because of deserialized object destructor execution via a key/value pair in a hash.
Why this priority
- Critical severity
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 9.8 (Critical) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 1.6% (top 25%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-502 |
| Published | 2022-11-01 |
| 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-2022-44542?
lesspipe: upgrade to 2.06. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2022-44542 being exploited?
CVE-2022-44542 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-2022-44542 affect?
CVE-2022-44542 affects lesspipe. Severity is critical (CVSS 9.8). lesspipe before 2.06 allows attackers to execute code via Perl Storable (pst) files, because of deserialized object destructor execution via a key/value pair in a hash.
How urgent is CVE-2022-44542?
Priority 58/100. Critical severity; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action