CVE-2020-5254: NetHack hilite_status parsing privilege escalation

Published Mar 10, 2020
·
Updated

In NetHack before 3.6.6, some out-of-bound values for the hilitestatus option can be exploited. NetHack 3.6.6 resolves this issue.

Affected Software

1 affected component
NetHack NetHack>=3.6.1<3.6.6

Remediation

Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.

  1. Upgrade

    Upgrade nethack to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 3.6.6

Event History

Mar 10, 2020
CVE Published
via MITRE·04:45 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·04:45 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·05:15 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2020-5254?

CVE-2020-5254 has a medium severity rating due to its potential for exploitation through out-of-bounds values.

2

How do I fix CVE-2020-5254?

To fix CVE-2020-5254, upgrade to NetHack version 3.6.6 or later.

3

What software versions are affected by CVE-2020-5254?

CVE-2020-5254 affects NetHack versions from 3.6.1 to 3.6.5.

4

Does CVE-2020-5254 affect all versions of NetHack?

No, CVE-2020-5254 only affects versions prior to 3.6.6.

5

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2020-5254?

CVE-2020-5254 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability that can be exploited through the hilite_status option.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203