CVE-2026-9538: Archive::Tar versions before 3.10 for Perl allow memory exhaustion via attacker controlled entry size field in tar header

Published May 26, 2026
·
Updated

Archive::Tar versions before 3.10 for Perl allow memory exhaustion via attacker controlled entry size field in tar header.

Affected Software

3 affected componentsFixes available
cpan/Archive/Tar<3.10
Archive\ \<3.10
debian/perl<=5.32.1-4+deb11u3, <=5.32.1-4+deb11u5, <=5.36.0-7+deb12u3, <=5.36.0-7+deb12u2, <=5.40.1-6
5.42.3-1

Remediation

Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.

  1. Upgrade

    Upgrade debian/perl to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 5.42.3-1
  2. Upgrade

    Upgrade Archive::Tar to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 3.10

Event History

May 26, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·12:18 AM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·12:18 AM
RemedyDescriptionWeakness
Data Sourced
via Red Hat·02:01 AM
DescriptionSeverityAffected Software
Data Sourced
via NVD·02:16 AM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
Aug 27, 2026
Data Sourced
via Debian·02:25 PM
DescriptionAffected Software
Data Sourced
via Launchpad·02:25 PM
Description
Aug 28, 2026
Data Sourced
via Ubuntu·02:25 PM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityAffected Software
Jul 4, 58624
Event
via FIRST·09:55 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-9538?

CVE-2026-9538 has a risk score of 28, indicating a moderate to high severity level.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-9538?

To fix CVE-2026-9538, upgrade to Archive::Tar version 3.10 or later.

3

What is the impact of CVE-2026-9538?

CVE-2026-9538 allows for memory exhaustion through controlled entry size fields in the tar header, potentially leading to denial of service.

4

Which versions of Archive::Tar are affected by CVE-2026-9538?

Archive::Tar versions prior to 3.10 are affected by CVE-2026-9538.

5

Who is affected by CVE-2026-9538?

Anyone using Archive::Tar versions before 3.10 in their Perl applications may be affected by CVE-2026-9538.

Contact

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