CVE-2025-58408 is a Use After Free vulnerability (CWE-416) identified in the Imagination Technologies Graphics Device Driver Kit (DDK), specifically affecting versions 1.15 RTM, 1.17 RTM, 1.18 RTM, and 23.2 RTM. The flaw occurs when software running as a non-privileged user issues improper GPU system calls that cause the driver to read stale data. This stale data may include handles to resources whose reference counts have become unbalanced, leading to premature destruction of resources still in use. Such use-after-free conditions can cause kernel exceptions, potentially destabilizing the system or enabling unauthorized access to kernel memory. The vulnerability does not require user interaction or elevated privileges but does require local access to the system. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.9 (medium), reflecting limited attack vector (local), low complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems by enabling potential kernel crashes or data leakage. No public exploits or patches are currently available, increasing the importance of proactive monitoring and mitigation. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for embedded systems, mobile devices, or specialized hardware using Imagination Technologies' GPU drivers.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-58408 can be significant in environments where Imagination Technologies Graphics DDK is deployed, such as embedded systems, mobile devices, or specialized graphics hardware. Exploitation could lead to kernel exceptions causing system instability or crashes, resulting in denial of service. Additionally, the use-after-free condition may allow attackers to read or manipulate kernel memory, potentially leading to information disclosure or privilege escalation in chained attacks. Confidentiality could be compromised if sensitive data is exposed through stale handles. Integrity may be affected if attackers manipulate kernel resources improperly. Availability is at risk due to possible kernel panics or system reboots. Although exploitation requires local access and no user interaction, insider threats or malware with local presence could leverage this vulnerability. European sectors with critical infrastructure or industrial control systems using affected GPUs might face operational disruptions. The absence of known exploits currently limits immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation, emphasizing the need for vigilance.

Given the lack of published patches, European organizations should implement specific mitigations beyond generic advice: 1) Restrict local access to systems running affected versions of the Graphics DDK by enforcing strict access controls and monitoring for unauthorized local logins. 2) Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection to prevent execution of untrusted or malicious software that could trigger the vulnerability. 3) Monitor kernel logs and GPU driver behavior for anomalies indicative of use-after-free exploitation attempts, such as unexpected kernel exceptions or crashes. 4) Isolate critical systems using affected GPUs from general user environments to reduce exposure. 5) Engage with Imagination Technologies for early access to patches or workarounds and plan timely updates once available. 6) Conduct regular security audits focusing on GPU driver versions and configurations to ensure no outdated or vulnerable versions are in use. 7) Implement kernel-level exploit mitigation techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and Control Flow Integrity (CFI) where supported to reduce exploitation success. 8) Educate local users and administrators about the risks of executing untrusted GPU workloads or software. These targeted steps will help reduce the attack surface and mitigate potential exploitation until official patches are released.