CVE-2026-16845: CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write in IBM AIX
Description
CVE-2026-16845 is a critical heap buffer overflow vulnerability in IBM AIX versions 7.2 and 7.3, as well as IBM PowerVM VIOS 4.1. This flaw could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code without requiring user interaction or privileges. The vulnerability is identified as CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) and has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.8, indicating high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
CVSS v3.1
Score 9.8critical
Affected software
IBM
AIX
IBM
PowerVM VIOS
cpe:2.3:a:ibm:aix:7.2:*:*:*:*:*:*:*cpe:2.3:a:ibm:aix:7.2.0:*:*:*:*:*:*:*cpe:2.3:a:ibm:aix:7.3:*:*:*:*:*:*:*cpe:2.3:a:ibm:aix:7.3.0:*:*:*:*:*:*:*cpe:2.3:a:ibm:powervm_vios:4.1:*:*:*:*:*:*:*cpe:2.3:a:ibm:powervm_vios:4.1.0:*:*:*:*:*:*:*Run on your own infrastructure? Check whether these packages are installed with threat-finder — our free open-source scanner.
Weaknesses
AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
This vulnerability involves a heap buffer overflow in IBM AIX 7.2, 7.3, and IBM PowerVM VIOS 4.1 that could be exploited remotely to execute arbitrary code. The CVSS 3.1 vector indicates the attack can be performed over the network with low attack complexity, no privileges, and no user interaction required. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems. No known exploits are reported in the wild at this time. No patch or remediation details are provided in the available data.
Potential Impact
Successful exploitation could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on affected IBM AIX and PowerVM VIOS systems, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making it critical for affected environments.
Mitigation Recommendations
Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the IBM vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until an official fix is available, monitor IBM security advisories closely and apply any recommended mitigations or workarounds provided by IBM.
Technical Details
- Data Version
- 5.2
- Assigner Short Name
- ibm
- Date Reserved
- 2026-07-24T03:09:04.604Z
- Cvss Version
- 3.1
- State
- PUBLISHED
Threat ID: 6a860991acd9273b498b4c1f
Added to database: 08/19/2026, 19:52:49 UTC
Last enriched: 09/11/2026, 06:02:10 UTC
Last updated: 10/04/2026, 10:02:25 UTC
Views: 44
Community Reviews
0 reviewsCrowdsource mitigation strategies, share intel context, and vote on the most helpful responses. Sign in to add your voice and help keep defenders ahead.
Want to contribute mitigation steps or threat intel context? Sign in or create an account to join the community discussion.
Actions
Updates to AI analysis require Pro Console access. Upgrade inside Console → Billing.
External Links
Need more coverage?
Upgrade to Pro Console for AI refresh and higher limits.
For incident response and remediation, OffSeq services can help resolve threats faster.
Latest Threats
Check if your credentials are on the dark web
Instant breach scanning across billions of leaked records. Free tier available.