CVE-2026-2246 is a memory corruption vulnerability found in the apriltag_detector_detect function within the apriltag.c source file of AprilRobotics' apriltag library versions 3.4.0 through 3.4.5. The vulnerability arises due to improper handling of data within this function, which can be manipulated by a local attacker with low privileges to corrupt memory. This corruption could potentially lead to undefined behavior such as application crashes or escalation of privileges if exploited effectively. The attack vector is local, meaning an attacker must have access to the system where apriltag is running, and no user interaction is required. The vulnerability has been publicly disclosed, and a patch is available identified by commit cfac2f5ce1ffe2de25967eb1ab80bc5d99fc1a61. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 4.8, indicating medium severity, with the vector indicating local attack vector, low complexity, no privileges required beyond low, no user interaction, and limited impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The apriltag library is commonly used in robotics, augmented reality, and computer vision applications for detecting fiducial markers, making it relevant in industrial automation and research environments. While no known exploits are currently in the wild, the public disclosure increases the risk of exploitation attempts, especially in environments where local access is possible.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2026-2246 depends largely on the deployment context of apriltag. In robotics and industrial automation sectors, which are prominent in Europe, exploitation could disrupt critical systems by causing application crashes or potentially enabling privilege escalation. This could lead to operational downtime, safety risks in automated manufacturing, or compromise of sensitive data processed by vision systems. Since the attack requires local access, the threat is higher in environments with multiple users or where attackers can gain initial foothold via other means. The vulnerability could also affect research institutions and companies developing AR/VR applications using apriltag, potentially undermining product integrity and reliability. Although the CVSS score is medium, the specialized use cases and critical nature of affected systems elevate the importance of timely patching. The absence of remote exploitation reduces the risk for perimeter defenses but highlights the need for strong internal access controls and monitoring.

European organizations should immediately identify all systems running vulnerable versions (3.4.0 to 3.4.5) of the apriltag library and apply the patch referenced by commit cfac2f5ce1ffe2de25967eb1ab80bc5d99fc1a61. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict local access controls to limit who can execute or interact with apriltag-dependent applications. Implementing application whitelisting and sandboxing can reduce the risk of exploitation. Regularly auditing and monitoring logs for unusual activity related to apriltag processes can help detect attempted exploitation. For environments where apriltag is embedded in robotics or industrial control systems, ensure that network segmentation isolates these systems from general user networks to prevent lateral movement. Additionally, consider employing runtime protection tools that detect memory corruption attempts. Training staff on the risks of local privilege escalation and maintaining up-to-date vulnerability management processes will further reduce exposure.