Kakoune is a code editor. Prior to version 2026.05.21, the bundled, enabled by default, `autorestore.kak` script can be exploited by malicious backup files leading to arbitrary kakoune and shell commands being executed by simply opening a file. Kakoune 2026.05.21 fixes the issue.
As a workaround, add `autorestore-disable` to the user kakrc will disable the autorestore feature.
Attack Parameters
Attack Vector
Local
Requires local access
Attack Complexity
Low
Easy to exploit
Privileges Required
None
No privileges needed
User Interaction
Required
User action required
Impact Assessment
Confidentiality
High
Complete data leak
Integrity
High
Complete data modification
Availability
High
Complete denial of service
CVSS Vector v3.1
Weakness Type (CWE)
Vulnerable Products
mawww:kakoune
References 2
https://github.com/mawww/kakoune/security/advisories/GHSA-h99r-h8cp-vwcq
https://github.com/mawww/kakoune/security/advisories/GHSA-h99r-h8cp-vwcq
https://github.com/mawww/kakoune/commit/25c7b13b244fd1ddacc63ecfe1784b5ebc2ba825
https://github.com/mawww/kakoune/commit/25c7b13b244fd1ddacc63ecfe1784b5ebc2ba825