bashbug

bashbug [filename]

filename
    Optional path to a script file reproducing the bug; its contents are inserted into the report.

bashbug is a helper script distributed with the GNU Bash shell to facilitate reporting bugs to the Bash development team. When run, it automatically gathers critical diagnostic information, such as the Bash version ($BASH_VERSION), host architecture, uname output, current working directory, locale settings, and environment variables relevant to Bash.

It prompts the user to enter a detailed description of the bug. If a filename argument is provided, the contents of that file (typically a script reproducing the issue) are included in the report. The tool formats this data into a structured email template and invokes the system's mailer (usually /bin/mail) to send it to bug-bash@gnu.org. Temporary files like /tmp/ba-* are created during the process and can be edited before sending.

This ensures bug reports are complete and consistent, aiding maintainers like Chet Ramey in reproducing and fixing issues efficiently. It is invoked manually when a Bash-specific problem is encountered.

Requires a working mailer like /bin/mail; reports only Bash issues, not other software. Temp files in /tmp may need manual cleanup if aborted. Not suitable for non-GNU Bash variants.

Formatted report mailed to bug-bash@gnu.org; editable before sending.

Generates /tmp/ba-[hostname]-[uid]-* files containing the report draft.

Exits 0 on success; non-zero if mailer fails or input invalid.

Created by Chet Ramey for GNU Bash around version 1.14 (1994); evolved with Bash releases to include more diagnostics like LC_* variables. Remains in Bash 5.x for consistent bug reporting.

bash(1), mail(1), uname(1)