CVE-2026-47544 in Virtual GPU Manager
Summary
by MITRE • 09/30/2026
NVIDIA vGPU Virtual GPU Manager for 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 • 10/01/2026
The NVIDIA vGPU Virtual GPU Manager for Linux presents a critical security risk rooted in its kernel mode driver architecture, specifically within the component responsible for managing virtualized graphics processing units. This vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds read operation, which occurs when the software accesses memory locations that are outside the intended buffer or data structure boundaries. In the context of kernel-mode execution, such a flaw is particularly severe because the kernel operates with unrestricted access to system resources and hardware interfaces. The root cause typically involves insufficient validation of input parameters or array indices provided by user-space applications or other processes interacting with the vGPU manager. When an attacker can trigger this condition through crafted inputs, they force the processor to read from arbitrary memory addresses rather than the designated safe region. This deviation from expected behavior exposes internal kernel data structures that are not intended for public access, creating a direct pathway for information leakage and further exploitation.
The operational impact of exploiting this out-of-bounds read is multifaceted and potentially catastrophic depending on the privilege level of the compromised process. The most immediate consequence is information disclosure, where sensitive memory contents such as kernel pointers, cryptographic keys, or credentials can be exfiltrated by an attacker. This leakage significantly reduces the effort required for subsequent attacks by providing valuable intelligence about the system's internal state. Furthermore, in many modern operating systems and hardware configurations, reading arbitrary memory can lead to code execution if combined with other techniques like heap spraying or specific race conditions that allow control over how the read data is interpreted. Even without direct code execution, an attacker may leverage this vulnerability to cause a denial of service by triggering kernel panics or system crashes through invalid memory access violations. Additionally, depending on the specific implementation details and surrounding security controls, there is potential for privilege escalation if the leaked information allows bypassing existing isolation mechanisms between virtual machines or user sessions.
This vulnerability aligns with Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) category CWE-125, which defines out-of-bounds read errors resulting from improper validation of array indices or pointer arithmetic. From a tactical perspective, this flaw supports techniques categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to Discovery and Defense Evasion. Attackers often utilize memory corruption vulnerabilities like this one as an initial foothold in complex environments such as virtualized data centers running NVIDIA vGPU solutions. The ability to read kernel memory facilitates reconnaissance activities that help attackers map out system configurations and identify high-value targets for further exploitation. It also aids in bypassing security mechanisms by leaking addresses of critical functions or structures, thereby neutralizing protections like Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR).
Mitigation strategies must prioritize immediate patching through official NVIDIA driver updates that address the specific memory access validation flaws within the kernel mode layer. System administrators should ensure that all vGPU-enabled hosts are running the latest stable versions of the virtual GPU manager software, as vendors typically release patches to correct these types of low-level programming errors shortly after disclosure. In environments where patching is not immediately feasible, strict network segmentation and least-privilege access controls can help limit an attacker's ability to interact with the vGPU driver interfaces from untrusted user spaces or compromised virtual machines. Additionally, enabling kernel hardening features such as KASLR (Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization) and SMEP/SMAP (Supervisor Mode Execution Prevention / Supervisor Mode Access Prevention) on supported hardware can mitigate the impact of memory disclosure by making it significantly harder for attackers to reliably exploit leaked addresses for code execution or privilege escalation. Continuous monitoring of system logs for unusual kernel-level errors or crashes may also provide early indicators of attempted exploitation activities.