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

This document (7018733) is provided subject to the disclaimer at the end of this document.

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

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.

  • Document ID:7018733
  • Creation Date: 24-Mar-2017
  • Modified Date:03-Mar-2020
    • SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop
    • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server

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