Eventpoll Memory Management Flaw in Linux Kernel

CVE-2026-46242

What is CVE-2026-46242?

CVE-2026-46242 is a significant vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's eventpoll feature, which is responsible for handling multiple I/O events and improving the efficiency of resource usage in applications relying on asynchronous I/O operations. This vulnerability arises from a memory management flaw in the ep_remove() function, where improper handling of the eventpoll's associated file structure can lead to a use-after-free condition, effectively allowing an attacker to manipulate memory in unintended ways. As a result, organizations that utilize the Linux kernel in their systems could face severe security risks, including unauthorized access, system crashes, or potential execution of malicious code, which can disrupt operations and compromise sensitive information.

Potential impact of CVE-2026-46242

1. Memory Corruption and Exploit Risks: The primary impact of this vulnerability lies in its ability to facilitate memory corruption due to the use-after-free condition. An attacker could exploit this flaw to overwrite critical data structures, leading to arbitrary code execution and system compromise.

2. Denial of Service (DoS): Exploitation of this vulnerability can result in instability in the affected systems, potentially causing unexpected crashes or service interruptions. This can hinder organizational operations and affect service availability for users and clients.

3. Escalation of Privileges: Depending on the implementation of the affected systems, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to escalate their privileges, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources that should be restricted, further increasing the potential for data breaches and other malicious activities.

News Articles

Securityweek

CVE-2026-46242

Proof-of-Concept Exploit Released for Linux ‘Bad Epoll’ Root Access Vulnerability

Exploit for "Bad Epoll" Linux kernel vulnerability (CVE-2026-46242) can lead to root access on desktops, servers, and Android phones.

2 weeks ago

It Security News

CVE-2026-46242

New Bad Epoll Bug Impacts Android and Linux, Allows Root Access - IT Security News

A recently found Linux kernel vulnerability called ‘Bad Epoll’ (CVE-2026-46242) allows an ordinary person without any special privilege to take complete command of a device as a root. This has impacted Linux systems, Android, and servers, and a patch is…Read more →

2 weeks ago

Techtimes

CVE-2026-46242

Bad Epoll: Kernel Race Bug Beats AI Auditing, Hits 99% Root Exploit Rate

Linux kernel privilege escalation vulnerability Bad Epoll (CVE-2026-46242) lets any unprivileged local user become root on servers, desktops, and Android devices running kernel v6.4 or later. No

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