CVE-2025-13952 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in the Imagination Technologies Graphics DDK, specifically in the GPU shader compiler library. The vulnerability arises when a web page containing specially crafted GPU shader code is loaded from the Internet, triggering a code path in the shader compiler that retains a pointer to a memory object that has already been freed. This results in a write use-after-free condition, which can cause the compiler process to crash or be exploited for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly severe because on certain platforms, the GPU compiler process operates with system-level privileges, allowing an attacker to escalate privileges and potentially take full control of the device. The affected product version is 25.1 RTM of the Graphics DDK. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 9.8, reflecting the vulnerability's ease of exploitation (network vector, no privileges or user interaction required) and its impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no exploits have been observed in the wild, the nature of the flaw makes it a critical risk. The vulnerability highlights the risks of complex GPU shader compilation processes exposed to untrusted input, such as web content, and the importance of secure memory management in GPU drivers and compilers.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those utilizing embedded systems, mobile devices, or specialized hardware that incorporate Imagination Technologies Graphics DDK version 25.1 RTM. Exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data theft, or disruption of critical services. Sectors such as telecommunications, automotive, industrial control, and consumer electronics manufacturers in Europe may be particularly affected due to their reliance on embedded graphics hardware. The ability to exploit this vulnerability remotely without authentication or user interaction increases the attack surface and potential for widespread impact. Additionally, organizations involved in critical infrastructure or government operations could face severe operational and reputational damage if targeted. The vulnerability also raises concerns about supply chain security, as compromised devices could be used as entry points for broader network attacks.

Immediate mitigation should focus on restricting the privileges of the GPU compiler process to the minimum necessary, ideally removing system-level privileges where possible. Organizations should monitor for unusual GPU shader compilation activity or crashes that could indicate exploitation attempts. Since no patches are currently available, applying vendor updates promptly once released is critical. Network-level controls such as web content filtering and blocking untrusted or suspicious web pages that may contain malicious shader code can reduce exposure. Employing runtime memory protection technologies (e.g., Control Flow Integrity, Address Space Layout Randomization) on affected platforms may help mitigate exploitation. Security teams should also review and harden the security posture of embedded and specialized hardware using the affected Graphics DDK. Finally, organizations should engage with vendors to obtain timely patches and security advisories.