CVE-2026-0648 is a vulnerability identified in Eclipse Foundation’s Eclipse ThreadX real-time operating system, specifically in version 6.1.7. The root cause lies in the CreateCounter() function located in threadx/utility/rtos_compatibility_layers/OSEK/tx_osek.c, where the error-checking logic incorrectly interprets the return value of the osek_get_counter() function. The code currently checks if the returned counter ID equals 0u to detect failure, but osek_get_counter() actually returns E_OS_SYS_STACK (12U) upon failure. Because of this mismatch, the failure condition is never triggered, and the code proceeds to cast the error code (12U) as a pointer to an OSEK_COUNTER structure. This results in a wild pointer referencing an illegal memory address (e.g., 0x0000000C). Subsequent writes to this pointer corrupt memory, potentially causing immediate HardFault exceptions or silent memory corruption. The vulnerability can be triggered by exhausting the counter pool through repeated calls, leading to denial-of-service conditions or unauthorized memory access. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.8 (high severity), reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with an attack vector requiring local access and low privileges but no user interaction. No patches have been published yet, and no exploits are known in the wild. This vulnerability is critical for embedded and IoT devices relying on ThreadX, as it can cause system crashes or unpredictable behavior.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2026-0648 is significant, especially those deploying embedded systems, IoT devices, or industrial control systems using Eclipse ThreadX 6.1.7. The vulnerability can lead to denial-of-service through system crashes (HardFaults) or silent memory corruption, potentially causing device malfunctions or failures. This can disrupt critical infrastructure, manufacturing processes, or consumer devices, leading to operational downtime and safety risks. Additionally, unauthorized memory access could expose sensitive data or allow attackers to manipulate device behavior, undermining data integrity and confidentiality. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but insider threats or compromised local networks could still trigger attacks. Given Europe's strong regulatory environment around cybersecurity and data protection (e.g., NIS Directive, GDPR), affected organizations may face compliance and reputational risks if devices are compromised or fail due to this vulnerability.

1. Immediate mitigation should include auditing all embedded and IoT devices running Eclipse ThreadX 6.1.7 to identify vulnerable instances. 2. Implement strict access controls to limit local access to trusted personnel and processes, reducing the risk of exploitation. 3. Monitor device logs and behavior for signs of repeated counter pool exhaustion or abnormal crashes indicative of exploitation attempts. 4. Where possible, isolate vulnerable devices from critical networks to contain potential denial-of-service impacts. 5. Engage with Eclipse Foundation or device vendors to obtain patches or updates addressing this vulnerability as soon as they become available. 6. Consider implementing runtime memory protection mechanisms or watchdog timers to detect and recover from HardFaults or memory corruption events. 7. For new deployments, evaluate upgrading to newer ThreadX versions or alternative RTOS solutions that have addressed this issue. 8. Conduct thorough testing of device firmware to ensure error handling correctly interprets return values and prevents wild pointer dereferences.