CVE-2026-15060: systemd-machined: unprivileged users can terminate arbitrary processes
When systemd-machined >= v259 (or v258 with a custom polkit policy that allows register-machine access) is running on a desktop system, an unprivileged user logged in a desktop graphical session can kill arbitrary processes, even privileged ones.
- versions older than v259 are not affected, unless unprivileged access is granted for the register-machine polkit action via a local, custom policy config file - versions older than v258 are not affected - unrelated to the systemd service manager (pid 1 or user session managers) - systemd-machined is not typically installed by default, and is typically in an optional, separate package (e.g.: systemd-container) - terminal-only or remote sessions (e.g.: ssh) are not affected
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in v259 - Compensating control
On desktop systems where systemd-machined >= v259 is running, ensure unprivileged users do NOT have polkit permission to perform the `register-machine` action (i.e., do not grant `register-machine` access via any local custom polkit policy config file).
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-15060?
The severity of CVE-2026-15060 is medium, rated at 4.7.
How do I fix CVE-2026-15060?
To fix CVE-2026-15060, upgrade systemd to version 259 or later.
What impact does CVE-2026-15060 have on my system?
CVE-2026-15060 allows unprivileged users to terminate arbitrary processes on a desktop system.
Which versions of systemd are affected by CVE-2026-15060?
Versions of systemd prior to v258 or v259 without a custom polkit policy are not affected by CVE-2026-15060.
Who is vulnerable to CVE-2026-15060?
Desktop users running systemd-machined version 259 or later are vulnerable to CVE-2026-15060.