Linux Kernel Vulnerability in rtmutex Component Affecting Multiple Versions
CVE-2026-43499

7.8HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

Linux

Status
Vendor
CVE Published:
21 May 2026

Badges

๐Ÿ‘พ Exploit Exists๐ŸŸก Public PoC

What is CVE-2026-43499?

A vulnerability exists in the Linux kernel's rtmutex component where the remove_waiter() function incorrectly utilizes current instead of waiter::task during a dequeue operation within various mutex handling paths. This mismanagement leads to multiple issues, including potential use-after-free vulnerabilities due to dangling pointers and improper priority management across tasks. The implications of this vulnerability necessitate careful attention to maintain system integrity and security.

Affected Version(s)

Linux 8161239a8bcce9ad6b537c04a1fa3b5c68bae693

Linux 8161239a8bcce9ad6b537c04a1fa3b5c68bae693 < 8a1fc8d698ac5e5916e3082a0f74450d71f9611f

Linux 8161239a8bcce9ad6b537c04a1fa3b5c68bae693 < 6d52dfcb2a5db86e346cf51f8fcf2071b8085166

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

References

CVSS V3.1

Score:
7.8
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
High
Integrity:
High
Availability:
High
Attack Vector:
Local
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
Low
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Unchanged

Timeline

  • ๐ŸŸก

    Public PoC available

  • ๐Ÿ‘พ

    Exploit known to exist

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

.