CVE-2026-21385 Qualcomm Multiple Chipsets: memory-safety flaw
In plain words: The program mishandles the memory it uses to keep track of data. A specially made input can scramble that memory. Usually lets an attacker crash the program or run their own code with its permissions.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Mar 24, 2026
What to do
- Install Qualcomm's security update for Multiple Chipsets. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
- Restart your phone every few days; some spyware does not survive a reboot.
- If you are a journalist, activist, lawyer, politician or executive, turn on Lockdown Mode (iPhone) or Advanced Protection (Android).
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: Messages, photos, location, microphone and camera. The most serious ones are "zero-click": no tap needed from the owner. They are usually used as spyware against a small number of chosen people.
The details
- Official name
- Qualcomm Multiple Chipsets Memory Corruption Vulnerability
- Product
- Qualcomm Multiple Chipsets
- CISA description
- Multiple Qualcomm chipsets contain a memory corruption vulnerability while using alignments for memory allocation.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-190)
- Confirmed exploited
- Mar 3, 2026
- US federal patch deadline
- Mar 24, 2026
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Answering about CVE-2026-21385 ·
Questions about CVE-2026-21385
Is CVE-2026-21385 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2026-21385 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Mar 3, 2026, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2026-21385?
Install Qualcomm's security update for Multiple Chipsets. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
Am I affected by CVE-2026-21385?
Only if you use Qualcomm Multiple Chipsets. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.