Local File Overwrite Vulnerability in IBM AIX and PowerVM
CVE-2026-17171

7.8HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

IBM
Status
Aix
Powervm ViOS
Vendor
CVE Published:
20 August 2026

What is CVE-2026-17171?

A local vulnerability exists in IBM AIX 7.2 and 7.3, as well as IBM PowerVM VIOS 4.1, allowing local attackers to overwrite arbitrary files. This issue arises from improper resolution of symbolic links, which could be leveraged by malicious actors to manipulate critical system files, potentially leading to unauthorized access or system disruption. Users are encouraged to apply patches provided by IBM to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.

Affected Version(s)

AIX 7.2

AIX 7.3

PowerVM VIOS 4.1

References

https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/node/7283858
vendor-advisorypatch

CVSS V3.1

Score:
7.8
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
High
Integrity:
High
Availability:
High
Attack Vector:
Local
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
Low
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Unchanged

Timeline

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

Credit

CVE-2026-14970, CVE-2026-15061, CVE-2026-15078, CVE-2026-15065, CVE-2026-15068 were reported to IBM by Oneconsult AG (https://oneconsult.com/).
.