CVE-2024-38552: drm/amd/display: Fix potential index out of bounds in color transformation function
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
drm/amd/display: Fix potential index out of bounds in color transformation function
Fixes index out of bounds issue in the color transformation function.
The issue could occur when the index 'i' exceeds the number of transfer
function points (TRANSFER_FUNC_POINTS).
The fix adds a check to ensure 'i' is within bounds before accessing the
transfer function points. If 'i' is out of bounds, an error message is
logged and the function returns false to indicate an error.
Reported by smatch:
drivers/gpu/drm/amd/amdgpu/../display/dc/dcn10/dcn10_cm_common.c:405 cm_helper_translate_curve_to_hw_format() error: buffer overflow 'output_tf->tf_pts.red' 1025 <= s32max
drivers/gpu/drm/amd/amdgpu/../display/dc/dcn10/dcn10_cm_common.c:406 cm_helper_translate_curve_to_hw_format() error: buffer overflow 'output_tf->tf_pts.green' 1025 <= s32max
drivers/gpu/drm/amd/amdgpu/../display/dc/dcn10/dcn10_cm_common.c:407 cm_helper_translate_curve_to_hw_format() error: buffer overflow 'output_tf->tf_pts.blue' 1025 <= s32max
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
CVE-2024-38552 is a Linux kernel AMD display driver bug where color-processing code could read or write past an internal array limit. It was found by static analysis and fixed by adding a bounds check. The source bundle provides no CVSS score, no confirmed exploitation, and no clear attacker path.
Executive priority
Treat this as a kernel maintenance item, not an emergency based on current evidence. Prioritize patching AMD graphics-capable Linux systems and vendor appliances during the next controlled update cycle, escalating only if your vendor rates it higher or exploitation evidence emerges.
Technical view
The issue is in AMD Display Core, specifically cm_helper_translate_curve_to_hw_format() in dcn10_cm_common.c. If index i exceeds TRANSFER_FUNC_POINTS, RGB transfer-function arrays may be accessed out of bounds. Stable kernel fixes add a bounds check, log an error, and return false.
Likely exposure
Exposure appears limited to Linux systems running affected kernels with the AMDGPU display stack. The bundle lists Linux as affected across several kernel lines and includes stable fix commits. Systems without AMD display driver use may have lower practical exposure, but that is not confirmed by the sources.
Exploitation context
The CVE is not listed as KEV, and the provided sources do not report active exploitation or a public exploit. The issue was reported by smatch static analysis. The bundle does not establish a remote attack path or required attacker privileges.
Researcher notes
Evidence is strongest for the code defect and fix, but weak for exploitability. The bundle lacks CVSS, CWE, privilege requirements, and attack vector. Analysis should avoid assuming code execution, denial of service, or local privilege escalation without vendor or researcher confirmation.
Mitigation direction
Apply Linux kernel updates containing the referenced stable fixes.
Prioritize vendor-supported kernel packages over manual driver changes.
Check Debian LTS and device vendor advisories for packaged fixes.
For appliances, confirm whether the vendor firmware includes the fixed kernel.
Track Siemens guidance if managing affected Siemens products.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux hosts using AMDGPU or AMD display hardware.
Check running kernel versions against vendor fixed package advisories.
Confirm kernel changelogs include the CVE or referenced stable commits.
Review asset owners for graphics-enabled Linux workstations and appliances.
Monitor vendor advisories for any later severity or exploitability updates.
Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.
Potential ATT&CK relevance
Conservative CVE-to-ATT&CK context
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ATT&CK lookup starting points
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CVE-2024-38552 mapping review
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