CVE-2026-55351 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 09/15/2026
In VPU, there is a possible out-of-bounds write due to an integer overflow. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2026
The vulnerability described involves a critical flaw within the Video Processing Unit (VPU) firmware or driver, specifically characterized by an out-of-bounds write resulting from an integer overflow condition. This type of defect typically arises when arithmetic operations involving buffer sizes, array indices, or memory allocation parameters exceed the maximum value representable by the assigned data type, such as a 32-bit signed integer. When this overflow occurs, the calculated memory address may wrap around to a significantly lower or higher location than intended, causing the system to write data into an unintended region of memory. This misalignment bypasses standard boundary checks that rely on the flawed calculation, allowing malicious actors to corrupt adjacent memory structures that are not meant to be modified by this specific operation.
From a technical perspective, out-of-bounds writes in kernel-space components like VPU drivers pose severe risks because they allow for arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation without requiring user interaction. The absence of required user interaction means the vulnerability can potentially be triggered remotely if accessible via network services, or locally through automated processes that invoke video processing functions. Since no additional privileges are needed to exploit this flaw, even a low-privileged process can leverage the integer overflow to overwrite critical kernel data structures, such as function pointers, security tokens, or control flow integrity mechanisms. This capability directly facilitates local escalation of privilege, enabling an attacker to gain administrative rights and full control over the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is profound, affecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the host system. An attacker who successfully exploits this flaw can execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, effectively compromising the entire operating system security model. This could lead to the installation of persistent malware, theft of sensitive data stored on the device, or use of the compromised machine as a pivot point for further attacks within a network infrastructure. In environments where video processing is critical, such as surveillance systems, media servers, or embedded devices with VPU capabilities, this vulnerability represents a significant threat vector that undermines trust in the hardware and software stack.
To mitigate these risks, vendors must implement rigorous input validation and bounds checking mechanisms before performing arithmetic operations on memory-related parameters. Utilizing safe integer libraries that detect overflows during calculation is essential to prevent the generation of invalid memory addresses. Additionally, enabling compiler-based security features such as Stack Canaries, Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), and Data Execution Prevention (DEP) can help mitigate exploitation attempts by making it harder for attackers to predict target addresses or execute injected code. Regular firmware updates provided by hardware manufacturers should be applied promptly to ensure that patches addressing these low-level memory corruption issues are deployed. Security teams should also monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of privilege escalation attempts and restrict unnecessary access to video processing interfaces where possible.
This vulnerability aligns with Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) identifiers such as CWE-190, which describes integer overflow or wraparound, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. In the context of attack tactics, this flaw supports techniques associated with MITRE ATT&CK framework categories including Privilege Escalation via kernel exploits and potentially Remote Code Execution if triggered remotely. Understanding these classifications helps in prioritizing remediation efforts based on industry-standard risk assessments and ensures that security controls are aligned with recognized best practices for mitigating memory corruption vulnerabilities in embedded and server-side systems.