The vulnerability CVE-2026-24852 affects the iccDEV library, which is used for handling ICC color profiles in various applications. Prior to version 2.3.1.2, the library contains a heap-based buffer overflow caused by the strlen() function reading beyond the intended buffer boundary when the buffer lacks a null terminator. This results in a heap buffer over-read, potentially leaking sensitive heap memory contents and causing application termination due to memory corruption. The root cause relates to unsafe handling of user-controllable input embedded in ICC profiles or other structured binary blobs, which can lead to ICC Profile Injection vulnerabilities. The vulnerability does not require privileges but does require user interaction and local access, limiting remote exploitation. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.1, reflecting low complexity but moderate impact on availability and confidentiality. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no workarounds exist aside from upgrading to version 2.3.1.2 where the issue is fixed. This vulnerability is relevant to any software or systems that utilize iccDEV for color profile processing, including digital imaging, printing, and graphic design applications.

For European organizations, the vulnerability poses a risk primarily to availability and confidentiality of systems processing ICC color profiles with vulnerable iccDEV versions. Exploitation could lead to application crashes, disrupting workflows in industries reliant on color management such as digital media production, printing, and publishing. Heap memory leakage could expose sensitive data residing in memory, potentially leading to information disclosure. While the vulnerability does not allow integrity compromise or remote exploitation without user interaction, the disruption and data leakage risks are significant for organizations handling sensitive or proprietary visual content. This could affect service continuity and data privacy compliance, especially under regulations like GDPR. Organizations using iccDEV in critical imaging or color management pipelines should consider the risk of operational downtime and data exposure.

The primary mitigation is to upgrade all instances of the iccDEV library to version 2.3.1.2 or later, where the heap buffer overflow is fixed. Organizations should perform an inventory of software and systems that utilize iccDEV for ICC profile processing and ensure timely patching. Since no workarounds exist, restricting user input that can influence ICC profile data may reduce exposure but is not a complete solution. Implementing strict input validation and sanitization for ICC profiles before processing can help prevent malformed or malicious profiles from triggering the vulnerability. Monitoring application logs for crashes or unusual behavior related to ICC profile handling can aid in early detection. Additionally, applying the principle of least privilege to applications using iccDEV limits potential impact. Security teams should also educate users about the risks of opening untrusted files containing ICC profiles to reduce user interaction exploitation vectors.