PatchTheCVECVE-2026-115586: virtualenv is a tool for creating isolated virtual python environments
CVE-2026-115586 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.1) affecting affected software. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
virtualenv is a tool for creating isolated virtual python environments. From 21.14.9 until 21.14.13, the bash bin/activate script can copy an attacker-controlled --prompt value into PS1 without escaping dollar signs or backticks when both promptvars and POSIX mode are disabled during activation. Re-enabling promptvars, running set -o posix, or starting an interactive child bash that inherits the exported PS1 can then expand command substitution i
Why this priority
- High severity
No fix is published yet: follow the downgrade or mitigation steps.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.1 (High) |
| Attack vector | Local |
| Attack complexity | High |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | Active |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.2% (top 92%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-78 |
| Published | 2026-10-23 |
| Last modified | 2026-10-23 |
Last updated 2026-10-23 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
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-2026-115586?
No fixed release is listed yet. Watch the vendor advisory and apply any mitigation shown on this page.
Is CVE-2026-115586 being exploited?
CVE-2026-115586 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-2026-115586 affect?
CVE-2026-115586 affects affected software. Severity is high (CVSS 7.1). virtualenv is a tool for creating isolated virtual python environments. From 21.14.9 until 21.14.13, the bash bin/activate script can copy an attacker-controlled --prompt value into PS1 without escaping dollar signs or backticks when both p
How urgent is CVE-2026-115586?
Priority 27/100. High severity