CVE-2026-54636: dokku vulnerability

What is known

Dokku is a docker-powered PaaS. Prior to 0.38.7, the cron plugin utilizes commands in the app.json file to manage system cron running as the Dokku user. An app.json cron command utilizing special shell characters - including, but not limited to, > or ; - can break out of the Docker container and execute commands on the host as the Dokku user. This vulnerability is fixed in 0.38.7.

Business impact

Successful exploitation of CVE-2026-54636, a critical vulnerability (CVSS 9.0) affecting dokku, may affect the confidentiality, integrity or availability of the vulnerable environment. The exact impact depends on the installed version, exposed interfaces and deployment configuration.

Recommended administrator action

Confirm whether dokku is present and compare installed versions with the vendor advisory and NVD record. Apply the vendor patch or documented mitigation; until remediation is complete, reduce exposure of affected interfaces, review relevant logs and monitor for indicators of exploitation. DataHouse can support version verification, managed patching, network exposure reduction, log review and backup validation for dedicated, cloud and colocated environments.

Sources

• NVD
• Reference
• Reference