CVE-2026-115586
Published:October 23, 2026
Updated:October 27, 2026
virtualenv is a tool for creating isolated virtual python environments. From 21.14.9 until 21.14.13, the bash bin/activate script can copy an attacker-controlled --prompt value into PS1 without escaping dollar signs or backticks when both promptvars and POSIX mode are disabled during activation. Re-enabling promptvars, running set -o posix, or starting an interactive child bash that inherits the exported PS1 can then expand command substitution in the stored VIRTUAL_ENV_PROMPT value and execute commands as the user who activates the environment. This issue is fixed in version 21.14.13.
Affected Packages
virtualenv (CONDA):
Affected version(s) >=21.14.10 <21.14.13Fix Suggestion:
Update to version 21.14.13https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv.git (GITHUB):
Affected version(s) >=21.14.9 <21.14.13Fix Suggestion:
Update to version 21.14.13virtualenv (PYTHON):
Affected version(s) >=21.14.9 <21.14.13Fix Suggestion:
Update to version 21.14.13Related Resources (5)
Do you need more information?
Contact UsCVSS v4
Base Score:
7.1
Attack Vector
LOCAL
Attack Complexity
HIGH
Attack Requirements
PRESENT
Privileges Required
NONE
User Interaction
ACTIVE
Vulnerable System Confidentiality
HIGH
Vulnerable System Integrity
HIGH
Vulnerable System Availability
HIGH
Subsequent System Confidentiality
NONE
Subsequent System Integrity
NONE
Subsequent System Availability
NONE
CVSS v3
Base Score:
7
Attack Vector
LOCAL
Attack Complexity
HIGH
Privileges Required
NONE
User Interaction
REQUIRED
Scope
UNCHANGED
Confidentiality
HIGH
Integrity
HIGH
Availability
HIGH
Weakness Type (CWE)
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command ('OS Command Injection')
EPSS
Base Score:
0.20