CVE-2026-49746 in Graphics DDK
Summary
by MITRE • 08/07/2026
Software installed and run as a non-privileged user may conduct improper GPU system calls to cause OOB read kernel memory access and in certain cases cause GPU UAF of arbitrary pages.
Incorrect validation of array index can lead to OOB read and potentially to GPU UAF of arbitrary pages.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in GPU driver implementations that allows non-privileged users to exploit improper system call handling and manipulate kernel memory access patterns. The issue stems from inadequate input validation within GPU subsystems where array index bounds are not properly verified during system call processing, creating opportunities for out-of-bounds memory reads that can expose sensitive kernel data. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of hardware and software security boundaries, leveraging GPU-specific system calls to traverse normal privilege escalation protections.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves malicious actors exploiting kernel interfaces that handle GPU operations by submitting crafted array indices that exceed allocated memory boundaries. When these invalid indices are processed without proper validation, they can cause the GPU driver to read memory locations beyond intended buffer limits, potentially exposing kernel memory contents including sensitive data structures, credentials, or other confidential information. This type of out-of-bounds read represents a direct violation of memory safety principles and can lead to information disclosure that may be leveraged for further exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to include potential arbitrary code execution through use-after-free conditions that can be triggered by the improper GPU system calls. When combined with other vulnerabilities or exploitation techniques, an attacker could potentially cause GPU driver memory corruption leading to privilege escalation or system compromise. The UAF (Use-After-Free) condition occurs when memory pages are freed but still referenced by subsequent operations, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate freed memory and execute malicious code within kernel space.
This vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumerations such as CWE-129 and CWE-787 which specifically address insufficient input validation and out-of-bounds read conditions in software systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that GPU drivers often run with elevated privileges and maintain direct access to hardware resources, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for system security. According to ATT&CK framework category T1068, this vulnerability could be categorized under "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and potentially T1547.001 for "Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder" if exploited through driver modification techniques.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within GPU system call handlers, including comprehensive array index bounds checking and proper memory management practices. System administrators should ensure that GPU drivers are kept up-to-date with vendor security patches and consider implementing kernel memory protection features such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization. Additionally, monitoring for unusual GPU system call patterns and implementing principle of least privilege access controls for GPU resources can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all inputs at every level of system operation, particularly in kernel space where improper validation can result in complete system compromise rather than simple application-level issues.