CVE-2021-29256 Arm Mali Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): memory-safety flaw
In plain words: The program mishandles the memory it uses to keep track of data. A specially made input can scramble that memory. Usually lets an attacker crash the program or run their own code with its permissions.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Jul 28, 2023
What to do
- Install Arm's security update for Mali Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
- Restart your phone every few days; some spyware does not survive a reboot.
- If you are a journalist, activist, lawyer, politician or executive, turn on Lockdown Mode (iPhone) or Advanced Protection (Android).
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: Messages, photos, location, microphone and camera. The most serious ones are "zero-click": no tap needed from the owner. They are usually used as spyware against a small number of chosen people.
The details
- Official name
- Arm Mali GPU Kernel Driver Use-After-Free Vulnerability
- Product
- Arm Mali Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
- CISA description
- Arm Mali GPU Kernel Driver contains a use-after-free vulnerability that may allow a non-privileged user to gain root privilege and/or disclose information.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-416)
- Confirmed exploited
- Jul 7, 2023
- US federal patch deadline
- Jul 28, 2023
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Answering about CVE-2021-29256 ·
Questions about CVE-2021-29256
Is CVE-2021-29256 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2021-29256 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Jul 7, 2023, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2021-29256?
Install Arm's security update for Mali Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
Am I affected by CVE-2021-29256?
Only if you use Arm Mali Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.