CVE-2013-4394

5.9 MEDIUM 0.3% exploit odds Fix listed

What it is

The SetX11Keyboard function in systemd, when PolicyKit Local Authority (PKLA) is used to change the group permissions on the X Keyboard Extension (XKB) layouts description, allows local users in the group to modify the Xorg X11 Server configuration file and possibly gain privileges via vectors involving "special and control characters."

At a glance

Exploitability: Can be exploited locally on the machine without logging in. High risk of data exposure, data tampering.
Exploit odds: 0.3% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).
Fix: A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

2013-10-28 22:55 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2026-06-16 23:57 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
Exploit odds: 0.3% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
Severity: 5.9 MEDIUM (CVSS).
Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published: 2013-10-28 22:55 UTC
Last modified: 2026-06-16 23:57 UTC
Exploit probability: 0.3% · EPSS, next 30 days
Weakness: CWE-276 · Incorrect default permissions
Record status: Modified

Affected

Systemd Project Systemd < 194
Debian Linux 7.0

Attack profile CVSS 2.0 · 5.9

Attack vector: Local
Complexity: High
Authentication: None
Confidentiality: Complete
Integrity: Complete
Availability: Partial

Raw vector

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

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-2013-4394.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2013-4394. 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