CVE-2002-0184
CWE-131Published: May 16, 2002· Updated: Jun 16, 2026
Official Description
Sudo before 1.6.6 contains an off-by-one error that can result in a heap-based buffer overflow that may allow local users to gain root privileges via special characters in the -p (prompt) argument, which are not properly expanded.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2002-0184 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires low privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 7.8.
A proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit exists for CVE-2002-0184. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (34)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-131)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2002-0184 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts