CVE-2026-47524 in GPU Display Driver
Summary
by MITRE • 09/30/2026
NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows and Linux contains a vulnerability in the kernel mode layer where an attacker could cause an out-of-bounds read. A successful exploit of this vulnerability might lead to code execution, denial of service, escalation of privileges, information disclosure, and data tampering.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2026
The identified vulnerability resides within the kernel-mode components of the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for both Windows and Linux operating systems. This specific flaw is classified as an out-of-bounds read, which corresponds to CWE-125 in the Common Weakness Enumeration standard. In this context, the driver fails to properly validate memory access boundaries when processing display-related commands or data structures sent from user-mode applications or other system components. Because kernel mode operates with the highest level of privilege on an operating system, any improper handling of memory addresses can have severe consequences for system integrity and security. The vulnerability allows a local attacker who has already achieved execution within a less privileged context to trigger this out-of-bounds read condition by crafting specific inputs that cause the driver to access memory locations outside its allocated buffer boundaries.
The operational impact of exploiting this kernel-mode flaw is significant due to the elevated privileges inherent in the graphics subsystem. A successful exploitation can lead to information disclosure, where sensitive data residing in adjacent memory regions is leaked back to the attacker through the out-of-bounds read operation. This could include cryptographic keys, session tokens, or other confidential system information stored in kernel space. Furthermore, depending on the specific state of the memory and how the driver handles the invalid access, this vulnerability can be leveraged for denial of service conditions by causing a system crash or blue screen error when accessing unmapped or protected memory pages. More critically, if the out-of-bounds read is part of a larger exploitation chain that involves subsequent writes or control flow hijacking techniques, it may facilitate arbitrary code execution with kernel-level privileges.
From an offensive security perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically sub-techniques related to command and script interpreters or system services, as the attack vector typically involves interacting with driver interfaces via API calls. The progression from a local unprivileged user to kernel code execution represents a privilege escalation event, categorized under ATT&CK tactic TA0004 (Privilege Escalation) and technique T1068. The ability to tamper with data or execute arbitrary commands in kernel mode effectively compromises the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the entire host system. Attackers can use this foothold to install rootkits, disable security software, exfiltrate sensitive files, or pivot to other systems on the network if the compromised machine serves as a gateway.
Mitigation strategies primarily involve applying vendor-provided patches that address the memory validation logic within the kernel-mode driver components. System administrators should ensure that NVIDIA GPU drivers are updated to the latest stable versions released by the manufacturer, which include fixes for this specific out-of-bounds read flaw. In environments where immediate patching is not feasible, implementing strict application whitelisting and restricting user privileges can reduce the attack surface by preventing unauthorized users from loading or interacting with vulnerable driver modules. Additionally, enabling kernel memory protection features such as Kernel Patch Protection on Windows or similar integrity mechanisms on Linux distributions can help mitigate the impact of exploitation attempts by detecting and blocking modifications to critical kernel structures. Continuous monitoring for anomalous behavior in graphics subsystems and regular security audits are recommended to detect potential exploitation activities early.