CVE-2004-2093: Buffer overflow in the open_socket_out function in socket.c for rsync 2.5.7 and earlier allows local users...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This is an old local rsync issue affecting version 2.5.7 and earlier. A user already able to run commands on the machine could crash rsync, and possibly run code only with their existing privileges. The CVE note says rsync is not setuid, so it should not create new privileges by itself. Exposure is most plausible on legacy Unix-like systems still running rsync 2.5.7 or earlier, especially multi-user hosts where untrusted local users can run rsync. Modern supported distributions are unlikely to ship such an old version, but embedded or neglected systems may still carry it. Treat this as a legacy hygiene issue, not an emergency, unless old rsync exists on shared or high-value systems. The main business risk is instability or abuse by an existing local user, not remote compromise or privilege escalation based on the provided sources. Mitigation focus: Inventory systems for rsync 2.5.7 or earlier.; Check OS or rsync vendor guidance for supported upgrade paths.; Replace unsupported rsync packages with maintained versions where feasible..

Prepared

Jun 29, 2026, 20:36 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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