CVE-2026-73077: Vim: Arbitrary Code Execution via Shell Keyword Lookup

Published Aug 11, 2026
·
Updated

Vim is an open source, command line text editor. Prior to 9.2.0839, the runtime/ftplugin/sh.vim, runtime/ftplugin/zsh.vim, and runtime/ftplugin/ps1.vim filetype plugins pass attacker-controlled Visual-mode selections from K through keywordprg commands without safely separating shell arguments. fnameescape() and PATHESCCHARS do not neutralize shell metacharacters before ShKeywordPrg, ZshKeywordPrg, or GetHelp invokes bash, zsh, or PowerShell, allowing arbitrary operating-system commands to execute with the privileges of the user running Vim. This issue is fixed in version 9.2.0839.

Affected Software

1 affected component
vim Vim<9.2.0839

Remediation

Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.

  1. Upgrade

    Upgrade Vim to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 9.2.0839

Event History

Aug 11, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·03:39 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·03:39 PM
DescriptionWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·04:17 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-73077?

The severity of CVE-2026-73077 is rated at 77, indicating a high risk of exploitation.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-73077?

To fix CVE-2026-73077, upgrade to Vim version 9.2.0839 or later.

3

Who is affected by CVE-2026-73077?

Users of Vim versions prior to 9.2.0839 are affected by CVE-2026-73077.

4

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-73077?

CVE-2026-73077 is classified as an OS Command Injection vulnerability.

5

What components of Vim are involved in CVE-2026-73077?

The vulnerability involves the runtime/ftplugin/sh.vim, runtime/ftplugin/zsh.vim, and runtime/ftplugin/ps1.vim filetype plugins.

Contact

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CVE-2026-73077 - Vim: Arbitrary Code Execution via Shell Keyword Lookup - SecAlerts