Raspberry Pi OS ends open-door policy for sudo

What changed

It has been reported that the latest release of Raspberry Pi OS now requires a password when using sudo by default. The tweak applies only to new installations; existing systems are reportedly left untouched. Type the wrong password and the command is refused. Get it right, and the system won't ask again for five minutes — so a string of admin tasks stays reasonably painless.

Why it matters

Passwordless sudo was convenient. It was also a glaring security hole: anyone with physical or remote access could run commands as root. The move will likely break some scripts and workflows — something to watch out for if you automate Pi boxes. It has been reported that users who prefer the old behaviour can revert to passwordless sudo via the Control Centre or raspi-config, so the choice isn’t gone, just nudged.

Reaction

It has been reported that community reaction is mixed — one user called it a "lame change" and said "it ruined my day," while others applaud the tighter default posture. Raspberry Pi itself, it has been reported, describes hardening defaults as "a tricky balance." For a platform born in garages and classrooms, this feels like one small step toward mainstream stability. Comforting? Or the end of carefree tinkering? Depends on how much you like surprises in your terminal.

Sources: The Register