CVE-2026-61400: Apache CloudStack: Get and Run Diagnostics Command Injection
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection') vulnerability in Apache CloudStack's run and get diagnostics functionality for the system VMs and virtual routers.
An authenticated user holding the permissions required to invoke either getDiagnosticsData or runDiagnostics can achieve arbitrary command execution on the system VM and/or Virtual Router instances, with commands running as root (or as the diagnostics-process user, at minimum). This represents a full compromise of the affected instance and, depending on network segmentation, may provide a foothold for lateral movement within the CloudStack-managed infrastructure, including access to guest network traffic handled by the compromised Virtual Router.
The getDiagnosticsData and runDiagnostics APIs are restricted to only Admin role accounts by default.
This issue affects Apache CloudStack: from 4.20.0.0 through 4.20.3.0 and from 4.21.0.0 through 4.22.1.0.
Users are recommended to upgrade to version 4.20.3.1 or 4.22.1.1 or later, which fixes the issue.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
Apache CloudStackto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 4.20.3.1 - Upgrade
Upgrade
Apache CloudStackto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 4.22.1.1
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can exploit this vulnerability under the default access-control configuration?
An authenticated account with permission to invoke getDiagnosticsData or runDiagnostics can exploit it. By default, those APIs are restricted to Admin role accounts, so exposure is limited to administrators unless permissions have been delegated or customized.
What is the impact of successful exploitation?
An attacker can execute arbitrary commands on affected system VMs and/or Virtual Router instances, as root or at least as the diagnostics-process user. This fully compromises the affected instance and may enable lateral movement or access to guest network traffic handled by a compromised Virtual Router.
Which releases need to be upgraded?
Affected releases are 4.20.0.0 through 4.20.3.0 and 4.21.0.0 through 4.22.1.0. Upgrade to 4.20.3.1, 4.22.1.1, or a later release.
What can be done if an upgrade cannot be performed immediately?
Restrict access to getDiagnosticsData and runDiagnostics to only trusted administrative accounts, and review any customized role permissions that delegate either API. Limit network reachability from system VMs and Virtual Routers to reduce opportunities for lateral movement if an instance is compromised.