Bug Fixes in Linux Kernel 5.10

CVE-2024-27398

What is CVE-2024-27398?

CVE-2024-27398 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel version 5.10, particularly related to Bluetooth connectivity. This flaw pertains to a use-after-free condition that arises when the software manages SCO (Synchronous Connection-Oriented) sockets. When a SCO connection is established and subsequently released, improper handling can cause the software to attempt to access freed memory. If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to instability in systems reliant on Bluetooth functionality, potentially compromising the overall integrity of the Linux environment they support.

Technical Details

CVE-2024-27398 manifests in the handling of SCO sockets within the Linux kernel, specifically during the timeout work scheduled to assess disconnection scenarios. The vulnerability is caused by the following sequence of operations: after a SCO connection is closed and the socket is deallocated, the system may still attempt to reference the now-freed memory when checking for timeout conditions. This leads to a use-after-free scenario, which can impair system stability and may allow for unintended behaviors or crashes. The issue was highlighted through a KASAN (Kernel Address Sanitizer) report that documented the attempts to access freed memory locations.

Potential impact of CVE-2024-27398

1. System Instability: Exploiting this vulnerability could cause erratic behavior in systems that rely on Bluetooth communication, resulting in crashes or performance degradation.

2. Security Risks: An attacker could potentially leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code within the kernel, which could lead to unauthorized access or elevation of privileges on the affected systems.

3. Operational Disruption: For organizations that integrate Bluetooth technologies into critical workflows, this vulnerability poses a risk of operational disruption, which can hinder productivity and service delivery.

References