CVE-2015-3238

What it is

The _unix_run_helper_binary function in the pam_unix module in Linux-PAM (aka pam) before 1.2.1, when unable to directly access passwords, allows local users to enumerate usernames or cause a denial of service (hang) via a large password.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in. Limited direct impact.

Exploit odds

2.7% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2015-08-24 14:59 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 00:25 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 2.7% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 6.5 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2015-08-24 14:59 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 00:25 UTC

Exploit probability

2.7% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-200 · Information exposure

Record status

Modified

Affected

• linux-pam ≤ 1.1.8
• Oracle sparc-opl Service Processor ≤ 1121

Attack profile CVSS 3.0 · 6.5

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

Low

Integrity

None

Availability

Low

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-2015-3238.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2015-3238. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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