Is CVE-2008-4194 actively exploited?

A proof-of-concept exploit is publicly available for CVE-2008-4194, but active exploitation has not been confirmed.

Can CVE-2008-4194 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2008-4194 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2008-4194?

CVE-2008-4194 has a CVSS score of 5.0 (MEDIUM).

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MEDIUMPOC

CVE-2008-4194

CWE-399Published: September 24, 2008· Updated: Jun 16, 2026

5.0

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

The p_exec_query function in src/dns_query.c in pdnsd before 1.2.7-par allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (daemon crash) via a long DNS reply with many entries in the answer section, related to a "dangling pointer bug."

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2008-4194 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.

A proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit exists for CVE-2008-4194. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.