CVE-2026-42850

What it is

Kitty is a cross-platform GPU based terminal. In versions prior to 0.47.0, it is possible to inject commands within the subshell through kitty error. A special escape code will make kitty return an error, this error is not escaped and will be correctly echoed back to the terminal with CRLF, as such it will be run by the shell in use. To exploit this bug, the victim must use a netcat or a similar program to connect to the attacker, or else listening for someone to connect. Once this condition is set, an attacker could pwn the computer of the victim using a special kitty's escape code that will run a command in the shell in use. Version 04.7.0 fixes the issue.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in, but needs a user to act. 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

1. 2026-06-12 20:16 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-10-26 11:10 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Details

Published

2026-06-12 20:16 UTC

Last modified

2026-10-26 11:10 UTC

Exploit probability

0.3% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-77 · Command injection

Record status

Analyzed

Affected

• Kovidgoyal Kitty < 0.47.0

Attack profile CVSS 4.0 · 7.4

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

High

Attack requirements

Present

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

Active

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

None