CVE-2026-12391: ubuntu-pro-client Local Privilege Escalation and Information Disclosure via Symlink Arbitrary File Read in collect-logs
An insecure symlink following vulnerability exists in Canonical ubuntu-pro-client (formerly ubuntu-advantage-tools) within the pro collect-logs command framework. The utility creates or utilizes predictable temporary file paths or user-accessible log directories when gathering diagnostic information without verifying the file type or ownership. An unprivileged local attacker can exploit this behavior by creating a symbolic link (symlink) at a predictable destination path pointing to an arbitrary, root-readable file (such as /etc/shadow or private files within /root). When a root administrator or operator subsequently executes the pro collect-logs command, the tool follows the user-controlled symlink, reads the target file, and compresses its contents into the resulting diagnostic support archive. Because the output archive remains readable by the unprivileged user, the attacker can extract and read the sensitive root-owned files, leading to a complete information disclosure of system secrets.
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-12391?
CVE-2026-12391 has a medium severity rating of 5.
What systems are affected by CVE-2026-12391?
CVE-2026-12391 affects the Canonical ubuntu-pro-client and formerly ubuntu-advantage-tools.
How do I fix CVE-2026-12391?
To fix CVE-2026-12391, update the Canonical ubuntu-pro-client to the latest version provided by Canonical.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-12391?
CVE-2026-12391 is a local privilege escalation and information disclosure vulnerability.
What can an attacker achieve by exploiting CVE-2026-12391?
An attacker may exploit CVE-2026-12391 to perform arbitrary file read operations and potentially escalate privileges.