CVE-2026-43944: electerm: dangerous code can be run through links or command line
Impact Arbitrary local code execution via deep links, CLI --opts, or crafted shortcuts. Affected users: electerm installs that accept protocol URLs or CLI options (affected versions listed in the original report). Exploit requires clicking a crafted electerm://... link or opening a crafted shortcut/command that launches electerm with attacker-controlled opts.
Patches Fixed in version > 3.8.8
Commits:
- https://github.com/electerm/electerm/commit/8a6a17951e96d715f5a231532bbd8303fe208700 - https://github.com/electerm/electerm/commit/a79e06f4a1f0ac6376c3d2411ef4690fa0377742
Workarounds - Disable or unregister electerm protocol handlers (Deep Link settings) and avoid clicking electerm:// links. - Do not run electerm with untrusted --opts arguments or open .lnk / .desktop files from untrusted sources. - Restrict which users can launch electerm on shared machines and avoid leaving electerm installed in locations reachable by other users. - As a temporary measure, run electerm in a confined account or sandbox (non-admin user) to reduce impact.
Resources - Report / credit: https://github.com/Curly-Haired-Baboon - Electerm releases: https://github.com/electerm/electerm/releases
Other sources
electerm is an open-sourced terminal/ssh/sftp/telnet/serialport/RDP/VNC/Spice/ftp client. From versions 3.0.6 to before 3.8.15, electerm is vulnerable to arbitrary local code execution via deep links, CLI --opts, or crafted shortcuts. Exploit requires clicking a crafted electerm://... link or opening a crafted shortcut/command that launches electerm with attacker-controlled opts. This issue has been patched in version 3.8.15.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Remediation
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-43944?
CVE-2026-43944 has a high severity due to its potential for arbitrary local code execution.
How do I fix CVE-2026-43944?
To fix CVE-2026-43944, upgrade to electerm version 3.8.15 or later.
What versions are affected by CVE-2026-43944?
CVE-2026-43944 affects electerm versions from 3.0.6 to before 3.8.15.
What type of attack does CVE-2026-43944 allow?
CVE-2026-43944 allows arbitrary local code execution through deep links or crafted command-line options.
Which platforms are impacted by CVE-2026-43944?
CVE-2026-43944 impacts systems using electerm as a terminal/ssh/sftp/telnet client.