CVE-2026-44049: Netatalk Out-of-Bounds Write Poses High Risk
The National Vulnerability Database has disclosed CVE-2026-44049, a high-severity out-of-bounds write vulnerability affecting Netatalk versions 2.0.4 through 4.4.2. This flaw resides in the convert_charset() function, specifically concerning null termination, and carries a CVSSv3.1 score of 7.5.
An attacker could exploit this vulnerability remotely without user interaction, given the right network conditions. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CVSS:H:H:H) means successful exploitation could lead to data compromise, system manipulation, or denial of service. The attacker’s calculus here is straightforward: target exposed Netatalk instances, leverage this flaw, and gain significant control or impact.
Defenders using Netatalk must prioritize patching. This isn’t a theoretical risk; it’s a known, exploitable primitive. The fix is available in Netatalk version 4.4.3. Ignoring this means leaving a critical vector open for remote compromise.
What This Means For You
- If your organization uses Netatalk, you need to immediately identify all installations running versions 2.0.4 through 4.4.2. Prioritize patching these systems to Netatalk 4.4.3 or newer to mitigate CVE-2026-44049. This is a critical remote exploitation vector.
Related ATT&CK Techniques
🛡️ Detection Rules
2 rules · 6 SIEM formats2 detection rules auto-generated for this incident, mapped to MITRE ATT&CK. Sigma YAML is free — export to any SIEM format via the Intel Bot.
CVE-2026-44049: Netatalk convert_charset Out-of-Bounds Write
title: CVE-2026-44049: Netatalk convert_charset Out-of-Bounds Write
id: scw-2026-05-21-ai-1
status: experimental
level: critical
description: |
Detects the execution of Netatalk with a command-line argument related to charset conversion, which is the vulnerable function in CVE-2026-44049. This specific pattern targets the vulnerable component of Netatalk where the out-of-bounds write occurs.
author: SCW Feed Engine (AI-generated)
date: 2026-05-21
references:
- https://shimiscyberworld.com/posts/nvd-CVE-2026-44049/
tags:
- attack.initial_access
- attack.t1190
logsource:
category: process_creation
detection:
selection:
Image|endswith:
- 'netatalk'
CommandLine|contains:
- '-charset'
condition: selection
falsepositives:
- Legitimate administrative activity
Source: Shimi's Cyber World · License & reuse
Indicators of Compromise
| ID | Type | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| CVE-2026-44049 | Buffer Overflow | Netatalk versions 2.0.4 through 4.4.2 |
| CVE-2026-44049 | Memory Corruption | Out-of-bounds write in convert_charset() null termination |
Written by SCW Vulnerability Desk
Source & Attribution
| Source Platform | NVD |
| Channel | National Vulnerability Database |
| Published | May 21, 2026 at 11:16 UTC |
This content was AI-rewritten and enriched by Shimi's Cyber World based on the original source. All intellectual property rights remain with the original author.
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