CVE-2002-0767: simpleinit on Linux systems does not close a read/write FIFO file descriptor before creating a child proces...

Security readout for executives and security teams

CVE-2002-0767 is an old Linux simpleinit flaw where a child process may inherit an open FIFO file descriptor and abuse it to make simpleinit run programs as root. Business urgency is highest for legacy Linux systems still using simpleinit; modern systems may not be exposed. Exposure is likely limited to legacy Linux installations that use the vulnerable simpleinit implementation. The provided CVE data lists affected vendor, product, and versions as n/a, so asset inventory is required before assigning business scope. Treat this as a targeted legacy-system risk. It can lead to root-level code execution if the vulnerable component is present, but the immediate priority depends on whether simpleinit exists in the environment. Mitigation focus: Inventory Linux hosts for simpleinit usage, especially legacy or embedded systems.; Check original vendor or distribution guidance for fixed packages or replacement init guidance.; Replace, upgrade, or isolate affected systems where vendor guidance confirms exposure..

Prepared

Jul 1, 2026, 06:17 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.