CVE-2026-42167 SQL injection in ProFTPD

High 8.1 Published 28 Apr 2026 Updated 1 May 2026

Remote attackers can execute arbitrary code via SQL injection in ProFTPD when logging USER requests with specific expansions and SQL backends allowing commands.

Exploited in the wild: Not known
Login needed: Not needed
Attackable: Over the internet
Victim action needed: Not needed
Fix: Available

What is CVE-2026-42167?

CVE-2026-42167 is a high-severity SQL injection vulnerability in ProFTPD, published on 28 Apr 2026. An attacker can exploit it over the internet without logging in, with no action from the victim.

Official description

mod_sql in ProFTPD before 1.3.9a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a username, in scenarios where there is logging of USER requests with an expansion such as %U, and the SQL backend allows commands (e.g., COPY TO PROGRAM).

Weakness: CWE-89

Which versions are affected by CVE-2026-42167?

It affects 1 product.

Linux distribution packages (1)

proftpd openSUSE:Tumbleweed All versions 1.3.9c-1.1

Products include Proftpd Proftpd.

How do I fix CVE-2026-42167?

Upgrade to a fixed version.

Use parameterised queries everywhere and never build SQL by joining strings. Upgrade affected software first; a web application firewall only buys time. More about SQL injection.

Is CVE-2026-42167 being exploited?

It is not confirmed as exploited in the wild, but public exploit code for CVE-2026-42167 exists.

Public exploit code: 1 Exploit-DB entry, 1 Nuclei template and 6 proofs of concept on GitHub.

Sources

Also known as DEBIAN-CVE-2026-42167, GHSA-q25r-7mmc-3mcj, OESA-2026-2158, OESA-2026-2159, OESA-2026-2760, UBUNTU-CVE-2026-42167 and 1 more.