CVE-2006-5051: Signal handler race condition in OpenSSH before 4.4 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (c...

Security readout for executives and security teams

CVE-2006-5051 is an old OpenSSH flaw in versions before 4.4. A remote attacker could crash the SSH service, and code execution was considered possible when GSSAPI authentication is enabled. Business risk is highest for legacy systems, appliances, or forgotten internet-facing SSH services. Exposure is most likely on legacy hosts, embedded systems, appliances, or vendor-maintained platforms still running OpenSSH before 4.4 or old backported packages. Internet-facing SSH increases urgency, especially where GSSAPI authentication is enabled. Prioritize remediation on exposed or business-critical SSH services. Although the CVE is old and exploitation is not confirmed in the bundle, SSH is a high-value administrative entry point and affected legacy systems may carry material operational risk. Mitigation focus: Upgrade to OpenSSH 4.4 or a vendor-patched package.; Prioritize internet-facing SSH servers and administrative jump hosts.; Review whether GSSAPI authentication is enabled and required..

Prepared

Jun 29, 2026, 10:19 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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