CVE-2026-43895: jq: Embedded NUL in jq import paths causes local redaction-policy bypass and preserves sensitive fields in published artifacts

Published May 11, 2026
·
Updated

jq is a command-line JSON processor. In 1.8.1 and earlier, jq accepts embedded NUL bytes in import paths at the jq-language level, but later resolves those paths through C string operations during module and data-file lookup. This creates a mismatch between the logical import string that policy or audit code may validate and the on-disk path that jq actually opens.

Affected Software

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

Event History

May 11, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·05:24 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·05:24 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-2026-43895?

CVE-2026-43895 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability due to its potential to bypass local redaction policies.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-43895?

To mitigate CVE-2026-43895, users should upgrade jq to version 1.8.2 or later, which resolves the issue with embedded NUL bytes.

3

What software is affected by CVE-2026-43895?

CVE-2026-43895 affects jq versions 1.8.1 and earlier, including those from the Stedolan jq project.

4

What is the main risk associated with CVE-2026-43895?

The main risk of CVE-2026-43895 is the potential exposure of sensitive fields in published artifacts due to the bypass of local redaction policies.

5

Is there a workaround for CVE-2026-43895 if I cannot upgrade jq?

Currently, the recommended action for CVE-2026-43895 is to upgrade jq; no specific workarounds are provided to resolve the vulnerability.

Contact

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