CVE-2026-5185: Heap-based Buffer Overflow in Nothings stb_image
CVE-2026-5185 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Multi-frame GIF File Handler function stbi__gif_load_next within Nothings stb_image versions up to 2. 30. The flaw requires local access to exploit and has a medium severity rating with a CVSS score of 4. 8. The vulnerability allows manipulation that can cause memory corruption. The vendor was contacted but has not responded, and no patch or official remediation is currently available. Exploit code has been publicly released, increasing the risk of local attacks leveraging this issue.
AI Analysis
Technical Summary
This vulnerability exists in the stbi__gif_load_next function of the stb_image library (up to version 2.30), specifically in the handling of multi-frame GIF files. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs due to improper memory handling during GIF frame loading. Exploitation requires local access and can lead to memory corruption. The vendor has not issued a fix or advisory, and public exploit code is available. The CVSS 4.8 score reflects a medium severity with local attack vector and low complexity.
Potential Impact
Successful exploitation can cause heap-based buffer overflow leading to potential memory corruption. This may result in application crashes or undefined behavior. Since the attack requires local access, remote exploitation is not feasible based on current data. No evidence of widespread exploitation in the wild has been reported.
Mitigation Recommendations
No official patch or remediation is currently available from the vendor. Users should monitor the vendor's channels for updates. Until a fix is released, avoid processing untrusted multi-frame GIF files locally with vulnerable versions of stb_image. Consider applying additional local security controls to limit access to vulnerable applications or libraries.
CVE-2026-5185: Heap-based Buffer Overflow in Nothings stb_image
Description
CVE-2026-5185 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Multi-frame GIF File Handler function stbi__gif_load_next within Nothings stb_image versions up to 2. 30. The flaw requires local access to exploit and has a medium severity rating with a CVSS score of 4. 8. The vulnerability allows manipulation that can cause memory corruption. The vendor was contacted but has not responded, and no patch or official remediation is currently available. Exploit code has been publicly released, increasing the risk of local attacks leveraging this issue.
AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
This vulnerability exists in the stbi__gif_load_next function of the stb_image library (up to version 2.30), specifically in the handling of multi-frame GIF files. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs due to improper memory handling during GIF frame loading. Exploitation requires local access and can lead to memory corruption. The vendor has not issued a fix or advisory, and public exploit code is available. The CVSS 4.8 score reflects a medium severity with local attack vector and low complexity.
Potential Impact
Successful exploitation can cause heap-based buffer overflow leading to potential memory corruption. This may result in application crashes or undefined behavior. Since the attack requires local access, remote exploitation is not feasible based on current data. No evidence of widespread exploitation in the wild has been reported.
Mitigation Recommendations
No official patch or remediation is currently available from the vendor. Users should monitor the vendor's channels for updates. Until a fix is released, avoid processing untrusted multi-frame GIF files locally with vulnerable versions of stb_image. Consider applying additional local security controls to limit access to vulnerable applications or libraries.
Technical Details
- Data Version
- 5.2
- Assigner Short Name
- VulDB
- Date Reserved
- 2026-03-30T19:18:38.247Z
- Cvss Version
- 4.0
- State
- PUBLISHED
Threat ID: 69cb6f5ce6bfc5ba1de4b856
Added to database: 3/31/2026, 6:53:16 AM
Last enriched: 4/7/2026, 10:52:03 AM
Last updated: 5/15/2026, 12:23:33 PM
Views: 104
Community Reviews
0 reviewsCrowdsource mitigation strategies, share intel context, and vote on the most helpful responses. Sign in to add your voice and help keep defenders ahead.
Want to contribute mitigation steps or threat intel context? Sign in or create an account to join the community discussion.
Actions
Updates to AI analysis require Pro Console access. Upgrade inside Console → Billing.
Need more coverage?
Upgrade to Pro Console for AI refresh and higher limits.
For incident response and remediation, OffSeq services can help resolve threats faster.
Latest Threats
Check if your credentials are on the dark web
Instant breach scanning across billions of leaked records. Free tier available.