Tenable High-Risk Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in libheif Disclosed
Article Content
- •CVE-2026-120208 affects libheif versions 1.18.0 to 1.23.3.
- •The vulnerability allows for potential code execution via crafted HEIF files.
- •Public upload services and media platforms are at high risk.
A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability, CVE-2026-120208, has been identified in libheif versions 1.18.0 to 1.23.3. This flaw allows attackers to exploit unequal bit depths in chroma components of HEIF files, potentially leading to code execution in image-processing pipelines. Systems that process untrusted HEIF files, such as public upload services and media platforms, are particularly at risk. The vulnerability was published on October 31, 2026, with a CVSS score of 7.7, indicating high severity. Current exploitation status is unknown, and no proof-of-concept code has been reported. Users are advised to upgrade to the patched version and restrict untrusted HEIF file processing until then.
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