CVE-2018-7576: Null Pointer Dereference in Google TensorFlow

tensorflow Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

23/04/2019
Yes i
High
6.5

CVE-2018-7576: Google TensorFlow 1.6.x and earlier is affected by: Null Pointer Dereference. The type of exploitation is: context-dependent. Affects tensorflow versions < 1.7.0rc0. Fixed in 1.7.0rc0. How to fix ↓

Also tracked for

The same CVE-2018-7576 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.

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Background

Google TensorFlow is an open-source machine learning framework used for building and training various deep learning models. It provides a comprehensive ecosystem of tools, libraries, and resources for developing AI applications. TensorFlow is widely adopted and utilized in both research and production environments. However, versions 1.6.x and earlier of TensorFlow are affected by a vulnerability known as Null Pointer Dereference.

Vulnerability Detail

The Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability in TensorFlow arises from a context-dependent issue. It occurs when a null pointer is dereferenced, leading to a program crash or unexpected behavior. Exploiting this vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, cause a denial-of-service condition, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. This vulnerability was assigned the CVE identifier CVE-2018-7576 and is also tracked as GHSA-jfq2-rj7f-9gvf.

How To Fix

Latest published version: 2.21.0 as of 22 Oct 2026

pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.21.0"

Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.

If you need the minimum change

1.7.0rc0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==1.7.0rc0"

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability in Google TensorFlow versions 1.6.x and earlier poses a risk of program crashes, unexpected behavior, and potential security breaches. It is crucial to update to a patched version of TensorFlow to mitigate these risks. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

TensorFlow is an open-source machine learning framework developed by Google. It provides a comprehensive set of tools and resources for building and training deep learning models.

A Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability occurs when a program attempts to dereference a null pointer, leading to a crash or unexpected behavior. It can be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition.

Versions 1.6.x and earlier of TensorFlow are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploiting this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, cause a denial-of-service condition, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to TensorFlow version 1.7.0rc0 or later. This can be done by updating the TensorFlow package using the package manager or by manually installing the updated version from the official TensorFlow website.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tensorflow.

How To Fix

Latest published version: 2.21.0 as of 22 Oct 2026

pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.21.0"

Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.

If you need the minimum change

1.7.0rc0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==1.7.0rc0"

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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