CVE-2026-39254 in SteelSeries
Summary
by MITRE • 08/18/2026
Buffer Overflow vulnerability in SteelSeries GG (macOS) v.107.0.0 allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via the libSSEdevice.dylib, CxAudioHidDevice::DeviceGetDescriptionString components
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2026
The identified vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the SteelSeries GG application for macOS, specifically affecting version 107.0.0. This flaw is located in the dynamic library libSSEdevice.dylib and involves the CxAudioHidDevice::DeviceGetDescriptionString component. The root cause of this issue stems from improper bounds checking when handling input data related to audio device descriptions retrieved via Human Interface Device (HID) protocols. When the application processes information about connected peripherals, it fails to validate the length of incoming strings against the allocated buffer size, allowing an attacker to write beyond the boundaries of the intended memory region.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability aligns with Common Weakness Enumeration CWE-120, which classifies buffer copies without checking size limits. The exploitation vector typically involves crafting malicious HID reports or manipulating device descriptors that are processed by the libSSEdevice.dylib module. By supplying an oversized string during the enumeration of audio devices, a remote attacker can overwrite adjacent memory structures on the stack or heap. This overwriting capability enables the manipulation of control flow data, such as return addresses or function pointers, which is a prerequisite for achieving arbitrary code execution within the context of the SteelSeries GG process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe due to its potential for remote code execution. Since audio devices are frequently connected and disconnected by users, an attacker could potentially trigger this flaw through physical access scenarios involving malicious peripherals or via network-based HID emulation if applicable interfaces are exposed. Successful exploitation grants the adversary full control over the compromised process, which often runs with elevated privileges depending on system configuration. This can lead to complete compromise of the host machine, including data exfiltration, installation of persistent malware, and lateral movement within a corporate network environment.
In terms of threat modeling, this vulnerability maps to MITRE ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers Exploitation for Client Execution, particularly when leveraging user interaction or automated device enumeration processes. It also relates to CWE-787, an out-of-bounds write that facilitates memory corruption attacks. The lack of robust input validation in the DeviceGetDescriptionString function highlights a deficiency in secure coding practices regarding external data sources, even those considered relatively trusted like hardware descriptors.
Mitigation strategies must prioritize immediate patching by updating SteelSeries GG to a version where this buffer overflow has been remediated through proper length checks and safe string handling functions such as strncpy or std::string operations with explicit size limits. In the interim, organizations should restrict physical access to workstations to prevent connection of unauthorized HID devices. Additionally, deploying endpoint detection and response solutions that monitor for anomalous memory writes in system libraries can provide a layer of defense against exploitation attempts. Security teams should also audit third-party software dependencies within critical applications to ensure they adhere to secure development lifecycle standards that mandate rigorous input validation and boundary checks.