CVE-2026-39870
Description
The issue was addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.7.7, macOS Sonoma 14.8.7, macOS Tahoe 26.5. Processing a maliciously crafted image may corrupt process memory.
AI Insight
LLM-synthesized narrative grounded in this CVE's description and references.
Memory corruption vulnerability in macOS image processing could allow an attacker to corrupt process memory via a crafted image.
Root
Cause CVE-2026-39870 is a memory corruption issue in macOS's image processing code. The root cause is improper bounds checking when handling image data, leading to an out-of-bounds read or buffer overflow [1][2][3]. This was addressed with improved memory handling and bounds checking.
Attack
Vector An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by tricking a user into processing a maliciously crafted image. No special privileges are required; if the image is opened in an affected application, the vulnerable code is triggered.
Impact
Successful exploitation could corrupt process memory, potentially allowing the attacker to cause a denial-of-service (system termination) or other undefined behavior [2][3]. The impact is limited to memory corruption; code execution is not explicitly stated but cannot be ruled out.
Mitigation
Apple has released patches in macOS Tahoe 26.5 [1], macOS Sequoia 15.7.7 [2], and macOS Sonoma 14.8.7 [3]. Users should update to the latest available version to mitigate the risk.
AI Insight generated on May 18, 2026. Synthesized from this CVE's description and the cited reference URLs; citations are validated against the source bundle.
Patches
0No patches discovered yet.
Vulnerability mechanics
AI mechanics synthesis has not run for this CVE yet.
References
3- support.apple.com/en-us/127115nvdRelease NotesVendor Advisory
- support.apple.com/en-us/127116nvdRelease NotesVendor Advisory
- support.apple.com/en-us/127117nvdRelease NotesVendor Advisory
News mentions
1- Apple Patches Everything, (Mon, May 11th)SANS Internet Storm Center · May 11, 2026