CVE-2026-44621: Libunbound applications configured with 'unwanted-reply-threshold' could eventually be abruptly terminated
Libunbound applications configured with 'unwanted-reply-threshold' could eventually be abruptly terminated
Other sources
With NLnet Labs Unbound up to and including version 1.25.1, applications using libunbound and configured with 'unwanted-reply-threshold', could eventually be abruptly terminated if the threshold is reached and libunbound needs to call 'libworkeralloccleanup' since the function is absent from the function call allow list. When an application using libunbound sets 'unwanted-reply-threshold' to any non-zero value and the iterator queries an authoritative that replies with enough wrong-transaction-ID UDP datagrams to cross the threshold, the 'libworkeralloccleanup' will eventually be called. Since the function is absent from the function call allow list, this leads to a fatal exit of libunbound and eventual termination of the embedding application.Unbound itself is not affected since its relevant function 'workeralloccleanup' is registed in the allow list and proceeds to perform the documented cache flush.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 1.25.2-1 - Upgrade
Upgrade
unbound/libunboundto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 1.25.2
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-44621?
The severity of CVE-2026-44621 is medium with a score of 5.9.
How do I fix CVE-2026-44621?
To fix CVE-2026-44621, update Libunbound applications to a version newer than 1.25.1.
What causes the issue in CVE-2026-44621?
CVE-2026-44621 is caused by Libunbound applications configured with 'unwanted-reply-threshold' that may lead to abrupt termination.
Which applications are affected by CVE-2026-44621?
NLnet Labs Unbound versions up to and including 1.25.1 are affected by CVE-2026-44621.
What is meant by 'unwanted-reply-threshold' in CVE-2026-44621?
'Unwanted-reply-threshold' refers to a configuration setting in Libunbound that, when improperly set, can lead to application termination.