Changed passwords get stored in /etc/passwd instead of /etc/shadow

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Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11

Situation

While changing the password of a user using passwd or tools like chpasswd it is noted, the password has been entered into /etc/passwd instead of /etc/shadow.

Resolution

Please check /etc/shadow for the correct number of colons acting as separators. According to man 5 shadow, /etc/shadow consists of nine fields, separated by eight colons.

Cause

An additional colon in /etc/shadow.

Additional Information

It is recommended to not edit /etc/passwd or /etc/shadow manually but use the appropriate tools to apply changes.

Disclaimer

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