CVE-2026-53789: rsync < 3.5.0 Arbitrary File Deletion via Malicious File List

Published Aug 13, 2026
·
Updated

rsync before 3.5.0 contains an improper path handling vulnerability that allows a malicious sender to expand the scope of --delete operations beyond the intended destination subtree by sending a crafted file list that causes rsync to reclassify implied parent directory entries or treat synthetic paths as the transfer root. Attackers can exploit multiple variants including implied parent reclassification, synthetic root path construction, legacy protocol behavior below version 30, and non-directory root handling to cause the receiver to delete files outside the authorized destination directory.

Affected Software

1 affected component
rsync rsync<3.5.0

Remediation

Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.

  1. Upgrade

    Upgrade rsync to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 3.5.0

Event History

Aug 13, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·02:37 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·02:37 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-53789?

CVE-2026-53789 has a medium severity score of 6.5.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-53789?

To fix CVE-2026-53789, upgrade to rsync version 3.5.0 or later.

3

What type of vulnerability is identified in CVE-2026-53789?

CVE-2026-53789 is an arbitrary file deletion vulnerability due to improper path handling.

4

What software is affected by CVE-2026-53789?

CVE-2026-53789 affects rsync versions prior to 3.5.0.

5

What is the potential impact of CVE-2026-53789?

The potential impact of CVE-2026-53789 is loss of data through unauthorized deletion of files.

Contact

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