CVE-2026-86097: NULL Pointer Dereference in PX4 PX4-Autopilot
Description
PX4 Autopilot versions up to 1.17.0 contain a null pointer dereference vulnerability in the param_set_default_file() and param_set_backup_file() functions. This flaw can be triggered by invoking 'param select' or 'param select-backup' commands without a path argument from any PX4 shell, causing the autopilot process to crash. The vulnerability has a high severity score of 7.1 and does not require privileges or user interaction to exploit.
CVSS v4.0
Score 7.1high
Affected software
PX4
PX4-Autopilot
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AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
CVE-2026-86097 is a null pointer dereference vulnerability in PX4 Autopilot through version 1.17.0. The issue exists in the param_set_default_file() and param_set_backup_file() functions, which do not properly handle missing path arguments when the 'param select' or 'param select-backup' commands are executed from the PX4 shell. This leads to a crash of the autopilot process, potentially causing denial of service. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without authentication or user interaction.
Potential Impact
Successful exploitation results in a denial of service by crashing the PX4 autopilot process. This could disrupt the operation of the autopilot system, potentially affecting the stability and control of the vehicle using PX4. There is no indication of code execution or data compromise beyond process crash.
Mitigation Recommendations
Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until a fix is available, avoid invoking 'param select' or 'param select-backup' commands without a valid path argument from the PX4 shell to prevent triggering the crash.
Technical Details
- Data Version
- 5.2
- Assigner Short Name
- VulnCheck
- Date Reserved
- 2026-09-04T22:17:33.193Z
- Cvss Version
- 4.0
- State
- PUBLISHED
Threat ID: 6a9b4bc3acd9273b49619dd9
Added to database: 09/04/2026, 22:52:51 UTC
Last enriched: 09/15/2026, 01:11:47 UTC
Last updated: 10/18/2026, 06:48:20 UTC
Views: 104
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