CVE-2025-61984: ssh in OpenSSH before 10.1 allows control characters in usernames that originate from certain possibly untrusted sources, potentially leading to code ...

Description

ssh in OpenSSH before 10.1 allows control characters in usernames that originate from certain possibly untrusted sources, potentially leading to code execution when a ProxyCommand is used. The untrusted sources are the command line and %-sequence expansion of a configuration file. (A configuration file that provides a complete literal username is not categorized as an untrusted source.)

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

3.6/10

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

EPSS Probability

0.22%

12.5th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-159

References

Timeline

Published: Oct 6, 2025
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Deferred

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2025-61984?

ssh in OpenSSH before 10.1 allows control characters in usernames that originate from certain possibly untrusted sources, potentially leading to code execution when a ProxyCommand is used. The untrusted sources are the command line and %-sequence expansion of a configuration file. (A configuration file that provides a complete literal username is not categorized as an untrusted source.)

How severe is CVE-2025-61984?

CVE-2025-61984 has a CVSS score of 3.6/10 (LOW severity). The EPSS model estimates a 0.22% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2025-61984?

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.