PatchTheCVECVE-2026-72712: Nmap versions up to and including 7.99 contains a denial of service vulnerability that allows remote attackers
CVE-2026-72712 is a medium-severity flaw (CVSS 6.5) affecting affected software. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
Nmap versions up to and including 7.99 contains a denial of service vulnerability that allows remote attackers to crash the application by sending a crafted packet containing a zero-length TCP option. The malformed packet forces the Packet:parse_options() function in nselib/packet.lua to allocate objects in an infinite loop, causing an out-of-memory condition that results in application crash.
Why this priority
- CISA SSVC: public proof of concept
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 6.5 (Medium) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | Required |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.5% (top 58%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-835 |
| Published | 2026-08-11 |
| Last modified | 2026-10-24 |
Last updated 2026-10-24 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Exact fixes by distribution
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-2026-72712?
No fixed release is listed yet. Watch the vendor advisory and apply any mitigation shown on this page.
Is CVE-2026-72712 being exploited?
CVE-2026-72712 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-2026-72712 affect?
CVE-2026-72712 affects affected software. Severity is medium (CVSS 6.5). Nmap versions up to and including 7.99 contains a denial of service vulnerability that allows remote attackers to crash the application by sending a crafted packet containing a zero-length TCP option. The malformed packet forces the Packet:
How urgent is CVE-2026-72712?
Priority 36/100. CISA SSVC: public proof of concept