Use-After-Free Vulnerability in Linux Kernel's AF_UNIX Implementation
CVE-2025-38236

Currently unrated

Key Information:

Vendor: Linux
Status: Linux
Vendor: CVE Published:; 8 July 2025

What is CVE-2025-38236?

CVE-2025-38236 is a use-after-free vulnerability found in the AF_UNIX implementation of the Linux kernel, which is a crucial component of many Linux-based operating systems. The vulnerability arises in the unix_stream_read_generic() function, where improper handling of socket buffer states can lead to memory access issues. Specifically, when out-of-band (OOB) data is processed, the vulnerability allows a scenario where a program might attempt to access memory that has already been freed. This flaw could potentially allow an attacker or a malicious actor to exploit the vulnerabilities, leading to various detrimental effects on systems that rely on Linux, particularly those that implement UNIX sockets for inter-process communication.

As a core part of the operating system, the implications of this vulnerability are significant, potentially leading to system instability, unauthorized memory access, and even remote code execution scenarios if combined with other attack vectors. Organizations relying on Linux systems for critical applications and services should be particularly vigilant, as these vulnerabilities could serve as gateways for more sophisticated attacks.

Potential impact of CVE-2025-38236

System Instability and Crashes: The use-after-free nature of the vulnerability could lead to unpredictable behavior in applications, causing them to crash or operate erratically. This instability not only disrupts service continuity but can also affect the overall reliability of the affected systems.
Memory Corruption Risk: Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to serious memory corruption issues, which might result in data leakage or data integrity problems. Attackers may leverage these memory issues to execute unauthorized code, posing a severe security risk to sensitive information.
Potential for Remote Code Execution: While no active exploitations have been reported in the wild, the nature of the use-after-free vulnerability suggests a potential for remote code execution if an attacker is able to manipulate the stack or memory space following the execution of vulnerable functions. This could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malicious software or exfiltrate data.

Human OS v1.0:
Ageing Is an Unpatched Zero-Day Vulnerability.

Remediate biological technical debt. Prime Ageing uses 95% high-purity SIRT6 activation to maintain genomic integrity and bolster systemic resilience.

Deploy the Patch