REDHAT-BUG-2438542: High severity libpng LIBPNG vulnerability

Published Feb 10, 2026
·
Updated

LIBPNG is a reference library for use in applications that read, create, and manipulate PNG (Portable Network Graphics) raster image files. Prior to 1.6.55, an out-of-bounds read vulnerability exists in the pngsetquantize() API function. When the function is called with no histogram and the number of colors in the palette is more than twice the maximum supported by the user's display, certain palettes will cause the function to enter into an infinite loop that reads past the end of an internal heap-allocated buffer. The images that trigger this vulnerability are valid per the PNG specification. This vulnerability is fixed in 1.6.55.

Affected Software

1 affected component
libpng LIBPNG<1.6.55

Event History

Feb 10, 2026
Data Sourced
via Red Hat·06:01 PM
DescriptionSeverityAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the vulnerability associated with REDHAT-BUG-2438542?

The REDHAT-BUG-2438542 vulnerability is an out-of-bounds read in the png_set_quantize() function of the LIBPNG library prior to version 1.6.55.

2

What is the severity of REDHAT-BUG-2438542?

The severity of REDHAT-BUG-2438542 is considered critical due to the potential for denial of service or information disclosure.

3

How do I fix REDHAT-BUG-2438542?

To fix REDHAT-BUG-2438542, upgrade the LIBPNG library to version 1.6.55 or later.

4

Which versions of LIBPNG are affected by REDHAT-BUG-2438542?

LIBPNG versions prior to 1.6.55 are affected by the REDHAT-BUG-2438542 vulnerability.

5

What applications may be impacted by REDHAT-BUG-2438542?

Any application using the vulnerable LIBPNG library versions prior to 1.6.55 may be impacted by REDHAT-BUG-2438542.

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