CVE-2026-23918
8.8Apache Software Foundation · HTTP Server
A double free vulnerability in Apache HTTP Server using the HTTP/2 protocol may allow remote code execution.
Executive summary
A double free vulnerability in Apache HTTP Server version 2.4.66 allows authenticated attackers to achieve remote code execution via the HTTP/2 protocol, posing a severe risk to infrastructure stability and data confidentiality.
Vulnerability
This flaw involves a memory management error under CWE-415, specifically a double free condition within the HTTP/2 protocol handling modules, requiring low privileges and network access for exploitation.
Business impact
A successful exploitation of this vulnerability could grant attackers complete control over the affected web server, leading to total confidentiality, integrity, and availability loss. With a CVSS score of 8.8, the high severity rating reflects the potential for catastrophic system compromise, unauthorized data access, and extended operational downtime.
Remediation
Immediate Action: Upgrade Apache HTTP Server immediately to version 2.4.67 or later.
Proactive Monitoring: Monitor server access logs and error logs for unusual traffic patterns, unexpected process terminations, or abnormal resource utilization related to HTTP/2 requests.
Compensating Controls: Implement Web Application Firewall rules to filter anomalous HTTP/2 protocol requests or restrict network access to trusted administrative zones where feasible.
Exploitation status
Public Exploit Available: Yes, an ExploitDB entry and multiple public proof-of-concept repositories exist.
Analyst recommendation
Organizations running the affected version of Apache HTTP Server must treat this vulnerability with utmost urgency due to the high CVSS score and the availability of public exploit materials. Applying the vendor-supplied patch to version 2.4.67 is critical to neutralize the remote code execution vector.
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Sources
Originally found and disclosed by Bartlomiej Dmitruk, striga.ai, Stanislaw Strzalkowski, isec.pl, per the CVE Program record.