CVE-2026-44291: protobufjs compiles protobuf definitions into JavaScript (JS) functions
CVE-2026-44291 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 8.1) affecting protobufjs. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
protobufjs compiles protobuf definitions into JavaScript (JS) functions. Prior to 7.5.6 and 8.0.2, protobufjs used plain objects with inherited prototypes for internal type lookup tables used by generated encode and decode functions. If Object.prototype had already been polluted, those lookup tables could resolve attacker-controlled inherited properties as valid protobuf type information. This could cause attacker-controlled strings to be emitted
Why this priority
- High severity
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 8.1 (High) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | High |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.5% (top 57%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-94 |
| Published | 2026-05-13 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-17 |
Last updated 2026-06-17 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Am I affected?
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2026-44291?
protobufjs: upgrade to 7.5.6, 8.0.2. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2026-44291 being exploited?
CVE-2026-44291 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2026-44291 affect?
CVE-2026-44291 affects protobufjs. Severity is high (CVSS 8.1). protobufjs compiles protobuf definitions into JavaScript (JS) functions. Prior to 7.5.6 and 8.0.2, protobufjs used plain objects with inherited prototypes for internal type lookup tables used by generated encode and decode functions. If Obj
How urgent is CVE-2026-44291?
Priority 44/100. High severity; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
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