CVE-2016-1575: The overlayfs implementation in the Linux kernel through 4.5.2 does not properly maintain POSIX ACL xattr d...

Security readout for executives and security teams

CVE-2016-1575 is a Linux kernel overlayfs local privilege escalation issue. A person who already has local access could abuse incorrect handling of POSIX ACL extended attributes in certain directory conditions to gain higher privileges. It is not described as remotely exploitable in the supplied sources. Exposure is most likely on older Linux systems using vulnerable kernels or unfixed vendor backports, especially multi-user hosts, container hosts, or systems allowing untrusted local workloads. The bundle does not provide a complete product matrix beyond Linux kernel through 4.5.2. Treat this as high priority for legacy Linux estates and shared compute platforms. It requires local access, which lowers internet-facing urgency, but privilege escalation can turn a limited foothold into full host compromise. Mitigation focus: Apply vendor kernel updates that include the overlayfs ACL xattr fix.; Check Linux distribution advisories for CVE-2016-1575 package status.; Prioritize multi-user, container, and untrusted workload hosts..

Prepared

Jun 13, 2026, 14:44 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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