CVE-2003-0190: OpenSSH-portable (OpenSSH) 3.6.1p1 and earlier with PAM support enabled immediately sends an error message...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This issue can let an unauthenticated remote person learn which usernames exist on an SSH server. It does not by itself grant access, but it reduces guesswork for password attacks against exposed legacy systems. Likely exposure is internet- or network-facing SSH services running legacy OpenSSH-portable 3.6.1p1 or earlier with PAM enabled. Current systems are unlikely unless old distributions, embedded devices, or appliances remain unpatched. Prioritize remediation on exposed legacy SSH services. The issue is not a direct compromise path, but it helps attackers identify valid accounts and improves the efficiency of password attacks. Mitigation focus: Apply vendor-supported OpenSSH updates from the relevant operating system or appliance vendor.; Check Red Hat, TurboLinux, OpenPKG, or device-vendor advisories for affected package guidance.; Reduce SSH exposure to trusted networks or VPN paths where operationally possible..

Prepared

Jun 30, 2026, 11:12 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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