Improper EOF Handling in Python's Tarfile Module
CVE-2026-11972

8.2HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

Python Software Foundation

Status
Cpython
Vendor
CVE Published:
23 June 2026

What is CVE-2026-11972?

The tarfile module in Python improperly handles the End Of File (EOF) when files are opened in streaming mode, potentially leading to an infinite parsing loop. This issue can exploit the archive handling process, compromising the integrity of applications relying on this functionality.

Affected Version(s)

CPython 0 < 3.16.0

References

https://github.com/python/cpython/issues/151981
issue-tracking
https://github.com/python/cpython/pull/151982
patch
https://mail.python.org/archives/list/security-announce@p...
vendor-advisory

CVSS V4

Score:
8.2
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
None
Integrity:
None
Availability:
High
Attack Vector:
Network
Attack Complexity:
Low
Attack Required:
Physical
Privileges Required:
Undefined
User Interaction:
None

Timeline

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

Credit

Ryan Hileman (https://github.com/lunixbochs)
Petr Viktorin (https://github.com/encukou)
Stan Ulbrych (https://github.com/StanFromIreland)
.