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CVE-2006-10003 TODDR CVE debrief

CVE-2006-10003 is an off-by-one heap buffer overflow vulnerability in the st_serial_stack function of XML::Parser versions up to 2.47 for Perl. The bug occurs when parsing an XML file with very deep element nesting and can lead to a critical CVSS score of 9.8. The issue arises from the incorrect handling of stack expansion when the stack pointer equals the stack size minus one. This CVE was officially published on March 19, 2026, and last modified on June 30, 2026. Multiple sources, including NVD and Red Hat, have documented this vulnerability with various references and advisories.

Vendor
TODDR
Product
XML::Parser
CVSS
CRITICAL 9.8
CISA KEV
Not listed in stored evidence
Original CVE published
2026-03-19
Original CVE updated
2026-06-30
Advisory published
2026-03-19
Advisory updated
2026-06-30

Who should care

Security teams and administrators responsible for Perl applications using XML::Parser versions up to 2.47 should prioritize patching this vulnerability. Given the critical CVSS score of 9.8, immediate action is recommended to prevent potential exploitation. Red Hat and Debian have provided advisories and patches for affected systems.

Technical summary

The XML::Parser library for Perl, up to version 2.47, contains an off-by-one heap buffer overflow vulnerability in the st_serial_stack function. This flaw can be triggered by parsing XML files with deeply nested elements. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution. The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) score for this issue is 9.8, indicating a critical severity. The vulnerability is tracked under CVE-2006-10003.

Defensive priority

High priority should be given to patching systems using XML::Parser versions up to 2.47. Given the high CVSS score, defenders should treat this as a critical vulnerability that requires immediate attention.

Recommended defensive actions

  • Apply the official patch provided by the vendor (Toddr) or upgrade to XML::Parser version 2.48 or later.
  • Review and update inventory of systems using XML::Parser to ensure accurate tracking and prioritization.
  • Implement compensating controls such as enhanced monitoring and intrusion detection to mitigate potential exploitation.
  • Follow Red Hat and Debian advisories for specific patches and guidance.
  • Consider restricting access to XML parsing functionality for high-risk systems.

Evidence notes

The CVE-2006-10003 evidence is based on official records from CVE.org, NVD, and various vendor advisories. The vulnerability has been documented with a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating critical severity. Multiple sources, including Red Hat and Debian, have provided advisories and patches. However, due to the age of the CVE and potential limitations in historical data, defenders should verify the accuracy of affected systems and available patches.

Official resources

This CVE debrief article was AI-assisted and based on the supplied source corpus.