CVE-2026-43896: jq: Stack Overflow in Recursive Object Merge

Published May 11, 2026
·
Updated

jq is a command-line JSON processor. In 1.8.1 and earlier, unbounded recursion in jv_object_merge_recursive() allows a crafted jq program to crash the process with a segfault. The function is reachable through the * operator when both operands are objects.

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-2026-43896?

CVE-2026-43896 is classified as a critical vulnerability due to the potential for unbounded recursion leading to a stack overflow.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-43896?

To fix CVE-2026-43896, upgrade jq to version 1.8.2 or later, which addresses the unbounded recursion issue.

3

What versions of jq are affected by CVE-2026-43896?

CVE-2026-43896 affects jq versions 1.8.1 and earlier.

4

What kind of vulnerability is CVE-2026-43896?

CVE-2026-43896 is a stack overflow vulnerability that occurs in the recursive object merge function of jq.

5

How can CVE-2026-43896 be exploited?

CVE-2026-43896 can be exploited by executing a crafted jq program that triggers unbounded recursion, causing a segmentation fault.

Contact

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