The recent update of sudo-rs in Ubuntu 26.04 introduces a notable change: password input is now displayed as asterisks by default. This shift marks the end of a 46-year tradition where passwords were entered without any visual feedback, a practice aimed at enhancing security by preventing onlookers from gauging password length.
Developers argue that this modification addresses a significant user experience issue for newcomers, although it does come with a minor security compromise. Users can revert to the original method by adjusting the sudoers configuration with 'Defaults !pwfeedback', but the change has been labeled as 'Won't Fix' by the developers.
Since the change was committed two weeks ago, reports of dissatisfaction have emerged. A bug report highlights frustrations regarding the exposure of password length, which contradicts the historical security measures that have been in place for decades. As users adjust to this new feature, the debate over its implications for security and usability continues.