CVE-2026-16901: CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write in IBM AIX
Description
CVE-2026-16901 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting IBM AIX versions 7.2 and 7.3, as well as IBM PowerVM VIOS 4.1. It involves an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787) that could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code without requiring user interaction or privileges.
CVSS v3.1
Score 8.8high
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 in IBM AIX 7.2, 7.3, and IBM PowerVM VIOS 4.1 is caused by an out-of-bounds write condition. An attacker with network access could exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code remotely. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No known exploits are reported in the wild at this time. The vulnerability is publicly disclosed and assigned CVE-2026-16901.
Potential Impact
Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution, allowing an attacker to fully compromise the affected system, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This could result in unauthorized control over the system and disruption of services.
Mitigation Recommendations
No patch or remediation information is currently provided. Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the IBM vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until a fix is available, restrict network access to affected systems and monitor for suspicious activity related to this vulnerability.
Technical Details
- Data Version
- 5.2
- Assigner Short Name
- ibm
- Date Reserved
- 2026-07-24T05:50:29.944Z
- Cvss Version
- 3.1
- State
- PUBLISHED
Threat ID: 6a860d18acd9273b498f9c2c
Added to database: 08/19/2026, 20:07:52 UTC
Last enriched: 09/11/2026, 05:32:02 UTC
Last updated: 10/04/2026, 10:02:25 UTC
Views: 55
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.