Heap Buffer Overflow in dnsmasq Can Redirect DNS Lookups
CVE-2026-2291

7.3HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

Dnsmasq

Status
Vendor
CVE Published:
11 May 2026

Badges

๐Ÿ‘พ Exploit Exists๐ŸŸก Public PoC

What is CVE-2026-2291?

The dnsmasq service contains a flaw in its extract_name() function, which can be exploited to cause a heap buffer overflow. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject incorrect DNS cache entries, leading to potential redirection of DNS queries to malicious IP addresses. Furthermore, this could enable denial-of-service conditions by disrupting normal DNS operations. Mitigating this vulnerability is crucial for maintaining network security and integrity.

Affected Version(s)

dnsmasq 0 < 2.92rel2

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

References

CVSS V3.1

Score:
7.3
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
Low
Integrity:
Low
Availability:
Low
Attack Vector:
Network
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
None
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Unchanged

Timeline

  • ๐ŸŸก

    Public PoC available

  • ๐Ÿ‘พ

    Exploit known to exist

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

.