CVE-2026-24403 is an integer overflow vulnerability identified in the InternationalColorConsortium's iccDEV library, specifically in versions 2.3.1.1 and earlier. The vulnerability resides in the CIccProfile::CheckHeader() function within the icValidateStatus module, where insufficient input validation allows maliciously crafted ICC color profile data to manipulate tag tables, offsets, or size fields. This manipulation can cause integer overflow during parsing, leading to memory corruption or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability arises from improper input validation (CWE-20) and integer overflow (CWE-190). Successful exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening or processing a malicious ICC profile file, which could be delivered via email attachments, web downloads, or embedded in documents. The consequences include application crashes, denial of service, or potentially arbitrary code execution if memory corruption is leveraged further. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.1, reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary, with impact primarily on integrity and availability. The issue has been addressed in iccDEV version 2.3.1.2, which includes proper input validation and overflow protections. No public exploits or active exploitation campaigns have been reported to date. The iccDEV library is widely used in software handling ICC color profiles, including graphic design, printing, and imaging applications, making this vulnerability relevant to organizations in those sectors.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses significant risks particularly to industries reliant on color management workflows such as printing, publishing, graphic design, and digital media production. Exploitation could lead to denial of service, disrupting critical production pipelines and causing operational downtime. More severe exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to broader system compromise, data integrity loss, or lateral movement within networks. Given the network vector and user interaction requirement, phishing or malicious file distribution campaigns could target employees in creative or technical roles. The impact on confidentiality is limited, but integrity and availability of systems and data are at high risk. Disruptions could affect supply chains and client deliverables, damaging reputation and financial standing. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the availability of a fix necessitates prompt patching to prevent future exploitation. Organizations using iccDEV in their software stacks must assess exposure and prioritize remediation to maintain operational security.

1. Upgrade all instances of iccDEV to version 2.3.1.2 or later immediately to apply the official fix addressing the integer overflow and input validation issues. 2. Implement strict validation and sanitization of all ICC profile inputs before processing, including rejecting malformed or suspicious profiles. 3. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing for software components that handle ICC profiles to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 4. Educate users, especially those in creative and technical departments, about the risks of opening untrusted or unsolicited ICC profile files and attachments. 5. Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual activity related to ICC profile processing or crashes indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Coordinate with software vendors to ensure that all dependent applications using iccDEV are updated and patched. 7. Consider deploying intrusion detection systems with signatures tuned to detect malformed ICC profile exploitation attempts. 8. Maintain regular backups and incident response plans tailored to potential disruptions in color management workflows.