CVE-2016-4477: wpa_supplicant 0.4.0 through 2.5 does not reject \n and \r characters in passphrase parameters, which allow...

Security readout for executives and security teams

CVE-2016-4477 affects wpa_supplicant, a common Wi-Fi client component. Older versions did not properly block newline characters in passphrase settings. A local user able to send specific configuration commands could potentially gain higher privileges through unintended library loading or crash the daemon. Exposure is most relevant on Linux, Android, or embedded systems running wpa_supplicant 0.4.0 through 2.5, especially where local users or local management components can interact with the wpa_supplicant control interface. Prioritize remediation where shared systems, managed endpoints, Android devices, or embedded products allow local user access. The issue can enable privilege escalation, but it is not described as remotely exploitable in the provided sources. Mitigation focus: Identify systems running wpa_supplicant versions 0.4.0 through 2.5.; Apply vendor security updates from the relevant OS or device vendor.; For Ubuntu systems, review and apply USN-3455-1 guidance..

Prepared

Jun 13, 2026, 18:11 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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