CVE-2025-58411 is a use-after-free vulnerability identified in the Graphics Device Driver Kit (DDK) developed by Imagination Technologies, affecting versions 1.15 RTM, 1.17 RTM, 1.18 RTM, and 23.2 RTM. The vulnerability stems from improper management of GPU system calls executed by software running under non-privileged user accounts. Specifically, the flaw involves incorrect reference counting and resource management within the GPU driver, which leads to a scenario where freed memory resources can be accessed or written to after they have been released (use-after-free). This type of vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause denial of service by corrupting memory structures. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), scope changed (S:C), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for privilege escalation and system compromise. The affected product, Imagination Technologies Graphics DDK, is widely used in embedded systems, mobile devices, and other platforms that rely on GPU acceleration. The improper handling of GPU system calls by non-privileged users suggests that local attackers or compromised applications could leverage this flaw to gain higher privileges or disrupt system operations. The vulnerability was reserved in September 2025 and published in January 2026, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No official patches or mitigations have been linked yet, emphasizing the need for proactive defensive measures.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-58411 is significant, especially those relying on embedded systems, mobile devices, or specialized hardware utilizing Imagination Technologies Graphics DDK. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution with elevated privileges, allowing attackers to compromise system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This could result in data breaches, system downtime, or persistent footholds within critical infrastructure or enterprise environments. The vulnerability's local attack vector means that attackers need some level of access, but given the prevalence of multi-user systems and potential for insider threats or malware, the risk remains substantial. Industries such as telecommunications, automotive, industrial control systems, and consumer electronics in Europe could be affected, particularly where GPU acceleration is integral. The potential for scope change (affecting components beyond the initially compromised process) increases the risk of widespread system impact. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for mitigation, but the high severity score underscores the urgency for European organizations to assess exposure and implement controls.

1. Restrict access to GPU system calls by enforcing strict user privilege separation and limiting which processes can interact with the GPU driver. 2. Employ runtime memory protection mechanisms such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) and Data Execution Prevention (DEP) to reduce exploitation success. 3. Monitor GPU driver behavior and system logs for anomalous or unexpected GPU system call patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. 4. Isolate critical systems using affected hardware to minimize the attack surface and prevent lateral movement. 5. Engage with Imagination Technologies for timely patches or updates and apply them promptly once available. 6. Conduct thorough code audits and penetration testing focusing on GPU driver interactions within the environment. 7. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting use-after-free exploitation techniques. 8. Educate developers and system administrators about the risks of improper GPU call handling and secure coding practices related to driver interactions.