CVE-2017-20229

MAWK 1.3.3-17 and prior contains a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by exploiting inadequate boundary checks on user-supplied input. Attackers can craft malicious input that overflows the stack buffer and execute a return-oriented programming chain to spawn a shell with application privileges.

Score

CVSS 3.1 9.8 Critical

Status

Analyzed - disclosure@vulncheck.com

Published

2026-03-28

Last modified

2026-07-15

Weaknesses

CWE-787

Affected products

• Mawk (Invisible-island)

References

• https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/42357
• https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/mawk-17-stack-based-buffer-overflow