CVE-2026-41256: jq: Embedded NUL truncates top-level jq programs loaded with -f

Published May 11, 2026
·
Updated

jq is a command-line JSON processor. In 1.8.1 and earlier, Top-level jq programs loaded from a file with -f are truncated at the first embedded NUL byte on current upstream HEAD. A crafted filter file such as . followed by \x00 and arbitrary suffix compiles and executes as only the prefix before the NUL. This leaves jq with a post-CVE-2026-33948 prefix/full-buffer mismatch on the compilation path even though the JSON parser path has already been fixed.

Affected Software

2 affected components
Stedolan jq<=1.8.1
jqlang jq<=1.8.1

Event History

May 11, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·05:18 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·05:18 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·06:16 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-41256?

CVE-2026-41256 is classified as a 'moderate' severity vulnerability due to its impact on JSON processing when using jq.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-41256?

To fix CVE-2026-41256, update jq to version 1.8.2 or later, which addresses the vulnerability.

3

What are the possible impacts of CVE-2026-41256?

The impacts of CVE-2026-41256 include truncation of jq programs which may lead to incomplete or incorrect JSON processing.

4

Which versions of jq are affected by CVE-2026-41256?

CVE-2026-41256 affects jq version 1.8.1 and all earlier versions.

5

What is jq and its relation to CVE-2026-41256?

jq is a command-line JSON processor, and CVE-2026-41256 concerns the way it handles files with embedded NUL bytes.

Contact

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