CVE-2008-3863

7.6 HIGH 8% exploit odds Fix listed Memory safety

What it is

Stack-based buffer overflow in the read_special_escape function in src/psgen.c in GNU Enscript 1.6.1 and 1.6.4 beta, when the -e (aka special escapes processing) option is enabled, allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted ASCII file, related to the setfilename command.

At a glance

Exploitability: Can be exploited over the network without logging in. High risk of data exposure, data tampering, service disruption.
Exploit odds: 8.4% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).
Fix: A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

2008-10-23 22:00 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2026-06-16 22:56 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
Exploit odds: 8.4% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
Severity: 7.6 HIGH (CVSS).
Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published: 2008-10-23 22:00 UTC
Last modified: 2026-06-16 22:56 UTC
Exploit probability: 8.4% · EPSS, next 30 days
Weakness: CWE-119 · Buffer errors
Record status: Modified

Affected

Gnu Enscript 1.6.1
Gnu Enscript 1.6.4

Attack profile CVSS 2.0 · 7.6

Attack vector: Network
Complexity: High
Authentication: None
Confidentiality: Complete
Integrity: Complete
Availability: Complete

Raw vector

AV:N/AC:H/Au:N/C:C/I:C/A:C

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2008-3863.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2008-3863. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

· More options · Status badge

Download Square Reddit

Fix and advisories

References

NVD record · CVE.org record