HIGH

CVE-2026-48120

Kakoune has a Critical RCE via Autorestore Backup Filename Injection

CVSS v3

8.6

HIGH

EPSS Score

exploit probability

CISA KEV

No

known exploited

Exploitation

SSVC status

Description

Kakoune is a code editor. Prior to version 2026.05.21, the bundled, enabled by default, `autorestore.kak` script can be exploited by malicious backup files leading to arbitrary kakoune and shell commands being executed by simply opening a file. Kakoune 2026.05.21 fixes the issue. As a workaround, add `autorestore-disable` to the user kakrc will disable the autorestore feature.

Technical details

CVSS v3 Vector
3.1
Published
8/7/2026
Last Modified
8/7/2026

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2026-48120?

Kakoune is a code editor. Prior to version 2026.05.21, the bundled, enabled by default, `autorestore.kak` script can be exploited by malicious backup files leading to arbitrary kakoune and shell commands being executed by simply opening a file. Kakoune 2026.05.21 fixes the issue. As a workaround, add `autorestore-disable` to the user kakrc will disable the autorestore feature.

Is CVE-2026-48120 actively exploited?

Active exploitation of CVE-2026-48120 has not been confirmed. The EPSS score is N/A%, indicating the estimated probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

What is the CVSS score for CVE-2026-48120?

CVE-2026-48120 has a CVSS v3 base score of 8.6 (HIGH severity), with vector string 3.1.

Is CVE-2026-48120 affecting your environment?

Use isMalicious to check if any of your IPs or domains are associated with this vulnerability's IOCs.