CVE-2026-49188: Elevated Root Command Execution via ai_cmd Sockets
The aicmd utility executes with full root permissions. It pipes socket inputs directly to popen(), paving the way for unauthenticated users to execute arbitrary root commands.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Remove
Remove
ai_cmdfrom your environment.Disable or uninstall the ai_cmd utility if it is not required until a secure fix is available.
- Configuration
Configure ai_cmd to drop root privileges and run as a non-root user (least-privilege) or use privilege separation so commands received over the socket are not executed as root.
ai_cmd run_as_user = non-root - Configuration
Restrict the ai_cmd socket (filesystem/unix socket) permissions so only authorized users or processes can connect; remove world/unauthenticated access.
ai_cmd socket_permissions = restrict to authorized users/processes - Configuration
Require authentication for connections to the ai_cmd socket and validate or sanitize all socket input before passing it to popen() to prevent execution of arbitrary commands.
ai_cmd input_authentication_and_validation = require authentication and validate/sanitize input - Compensating control
Block or restrict network and local access to the ai_cmd socket using host-based ACLs, firewall rules (e.g., iptables/host firewall), or other isolation mechanisms so unauthenticated users cannot reach the socket.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-49188?
CVE-2026-49188 has a high severity rating of 8.7.
How do I fix CVE-2026-49188?
To mitigate CVE-2026-49188, restrict access to the ai_cmd utility and ensure that only authorized users can execute it.
What is CVE-2026-49188?
CVE-2026-49188 is a vulnerability that allows unauthenticated users to execute arbitrary root commands via the ai_cmd utility.
Who is affected by CVE-2026-49188?
Systems that run the ai_cmd utility with default configurations are vulnerable to CVE-2026-49188.
What actions can be taken in response to CVE-2026-49188?
Organizations should immediately audit their use of ai_cmd, apply necessary permissions, and evaluate the exposure to unsanctioned command execution.