CVE-2026-35376: uutils coreutils chcon Security Bypass and Mandatory Access Control (MAC) Inconsistency via TOCTOU Race Condition
A Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) vulnerability exists in the chcon utility of uutils coreutils during recursive operations. The implementation resolves recursive targets using a fresh path lookup (via ftsaccpath) rather than binding the traversal and label application to the specific directory state encountered during traversal. Because these operations are not anchored to file descriptors, a local attacker with write access to a directory tree can exploit timing-sensitive rename or symbolic link races to redirect a privileged recursive relabeling operation to unintended files or directories. This vulnerability breaks the hardening expectations for SELinux administration workflows and can lead to the unauthorized modification of security labels on sensitive system objects.
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-35376?
CVE-2026-35376 is identified as a security bypass vulnerability that may allow unauthorized access due to a TOCTOU race condition.
How do I fix CVE-2026-35376?
To mitigate CVE-2026-35376, update to the latest version of uutils coreutils where the vulnerability has been addressed.
Which software is affected by CVE-2026-35376?
CVE-2026-35376 affects the chcon utility within uutils coreutils during recursive operations.
What is the impact of CVE-2026-35376?
The impact of CVE-2026-35376 includes a potential bypass of Mandatory Access Control, leading to privilege escalations.
Is there a workaround for CVE-2026-35376?
A recommended workaround for CVE-2026-35376 is to avoid using the chcon utility for recursive operations until a patch is applied.