Public bug reported:
The lynis.desktop launcher uses su-to-root to elevate privileges:
Exec=su-to-root -c '/usr/sbin/lynis audit system --no-colors'
On Ubuntu (and derivatives like Linux Mint), the root account has no
password by default. su-to-root prompts for a root password that doesn't
exist, making the graphical launcher completely unusable.
Steps to reproduce:
Install lynis from the Ubuntu repository (apt install lynis)
Launch Lynis from the application menu
A terminal opens and prompts for a root password
No password is accepted — the application cannot start
Expected behavior:
The launcher should use a privilege escalation method compatible with Ubuntu's
default configuration (pkexec or sudo).
Suggested fix:
Replace in /usr/share/applications/lynis.desktop:
Exec=su-to-root -c '/usr/sbin/lynis audit system --no-colors'
With:
Exec=pkexec /usr/sbin/lynis audit system --no-colors
Environment:
OS: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble) / Linux Mint 22.3 "Zena"
Package: lynis 3.0.9-1 from noble/universe
Desktop: Cinnamon 6.6
** Affects: lynis (Ubuntu)
Importance: Undecided
Status: New
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https://bugs.launchpad.net/bugs/2141771
Title:
lynis.desktop launcher fails — su-to-root prompts for nonexistent root
password
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