CVE-2024-43374: The UNIX editor Vim prior to version 9.1.0678 has a use-after-free error in argument list handling. When adding a new file to the argument list, this ...

Description

The UNIX editor Vim prior to version 9.1.0678 has a use-after-free error in argument list handling. When adding a new file to the argument list, this triggers `Buf*` autocommands. If in such an autocommand the buffer that was just opened is closed (including the window where it is shown), this causes the window structure to be freed which contains a reference to the argument list that we are actually modifying. Once the autocommands are completed, the references to the window and argument list are no longer valid and as such cause an use-after-free. Impact is low since the user must either intentionally add some unusual autocommands that wipe a buffer during creation (either manually or by sourcing a malicious plugin), but it will crash Vim. The issue has been fixed as of Vim patch v9.1.0678.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

4.7/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H

EPSS Probability

0.35%

26.8th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-416

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Netapp	Bootstrap Os	All versions
Neovim	Neovim	<= 0.10.4
Vim	Vim	< 9.1.0678

References

https://github.com/vim/vim/commit/0a6e57b09bc8c76691b367a5babfb79b31b770e8Patch
https://github.com/vim/vim/security/advisories/GHSA-2w8m-443v-cgvwVendor Advisory
http://www.openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2024/08/15/6Mailing List, Third Party Advisory
https://security.netapp.com/advisory/ntap-20240920-0004/Third Party Advisory

Timeline

Published: Aug 16, 2024
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Analyzed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2024-43374?

The UNIX editor Vim prior to version 9.1.0678 has a use-after-free error in argument list handling. When adding a new file to the argument list, this triggers `Buf*` autocommands. If in such an autocommand the buffer that was just opened is closed (including the window where it is shown), this causes the window structure to be freed which contains a reference to the argument list that we are actually modifying. Once the autocommands are completed, the references to the window and argument list are no longer valid and as such cause an use-after-free. Impact is low since the user must either intentionally add some unusual autocommands that wipe a buffer during creation (either manually or by sourcing a malicious plugin), but it will crash Vim. The issue has been fixed as of Vim patch v9.1.0678.

How severe is CVE-2024-43374?

CVE-2024-43374 has a CVSS score of 4.7/10 (MEDIUM severity). The EPSS model estimates a 0.35% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2024-43374?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.