Microsoft warns: These flaws could give attackers root privileges on Linux desktops

Microsoft has discovered vulnerabilities in system components commonly used on Linux desktops that could allow an attacker to elevate privileges to root and install malware. 

Gaining root privileges on a compromised Linux desktop would allow the attackers to perform nefarious tasks, such as installing a root backdoor, or to undertake other malicious actions via arbitrary root code execution via the flaws Microsoft is calling Nimbuspwn.