CVE-2003-0853: An integer overflow in ls in the fileutils or coreutils packages may allow local users to cause a denial of...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This is an old but serious flaw in the Unix/Linux ls utility. A malformed width value can trigger an integer overflow, causing a crash or possible arbitrary code execution. Business risk is mainly legacy systems and services that indirectly expose ls behavior, including applications such as wu-ftpd noted in the CVE description. Exposure is most likely on obsolete Linux distributions or appliances still shipping vulnerable fileutils/coreutils packages. Remote exposure depends on a reachable service or application invoking ls in a way attackers can influence, such as wu-ftpd as cited by the CVE. Prioritize remediation where legacy systems are internet-facing or support file-transfer services. Internal-only exposure is still relevant because local users could trigger denial of service or possible code execution. Unsupported systems should be treated as technical debt requiring isolation or replacement. Mitigation focus: Identify legacy hosts with fileutils or coreutils packages from affected-era distributions.; Review the referenced vendor advisories for fixed package guidance.; Apply supported distribution updates or replace unsupported operating systems..

Prepared

Jun 30, 2026, 08:14 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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