CVE-2025-58408 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in the Imagination Technologies Graphics Device Driver Kit (DDK). The flaw occurs when software running with non-privileged user rights issues improper GPU system calls that trigger reads from stale memory locations. These stale data reads can include handles to resources whose reference counts have become unbalanced, leading to premature resource destruction while still in use. This improper management of resource lifetimes can cause kernel exceptions and enable write use-after-free conditions. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Graphics DDK (1.15 RTM, 1.17 RTM, 1.18 RTM, and 23.2 RTM). Since the issue manifests at the kernel level, it can potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, cause system crashes, or disrupt normal operations. Exploitation does not require privileged access but does require local user interaction to invoke the vulnerable GPU system calls. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for embedded systems, mobile devices, and other platforms using Imagination Technologies GPUs, which are common in various consumer electronics and industrial applications.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-58408 can be significant, especially in sectors relying on embedded systems, mobile devices, or specialized graphics hardware that utilize Imagination Technologies GPUs. Successful exploitation could lead to kernel-level crashes, denial of service, or privilege escalation, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access or disrupt critical services. This is particularly concerning for industries such as automotive, telecommunications, manufacturing, and defense, where embedded graphics hardware is prevalent. The instability caused by kernel exceptions could also affect system availability and reliability, impacting operational continuity. Furthermore, the ability for non-privileged users to trigger this vulnerability increases the attack surface, especially in multi-user environments or where endpoint security is less stringent. Given the widespread use of Imagination GPUs in various European-manufactured devices, the threat could affect a broad range of organizations, from SMEs to large enterprises.

1. Immediate mitigation involves restricting access to GPU system calls by non-privileged users through system hardening and access control policies. 2. Monitor vendor advisories closely and apply patches or updates as soon as they become available from Imagination Technologies. 3. Employ kernel-level security mechanisms such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and Control Flow Integrity (CFI) to reduce exploitation success. 4. Implement strict user privilege management to limit the ability of local users to execute potentially harmful GPU commands. 5. Conduct regular security audits and code reviews of software interacting with GPU drivers to detect improper usage patterns. 6. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring unusual GPU-related system calls or kernel exceptions. 7. For critical systems, consider isolating devices with vulnerable GPUs from sensitive networks until patches are applied. 8. Engage with device manufacturers to confirm the presence of affected DDK versions and coordinate remediation efforts. 9. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential exploitation events.