Linux Kernel Memory Management Issue Affecting Unix Socket Communication
CVE-2026-53361
Key Information:
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What is CVE-2026-53361?
CVE-2026-53361 is a vulnerability within the Linux kernel affecting Unix socket communication, which is a critical mechanism that allows processes to communicate with each other on the same operating system. The vulnerability is rooted in the memory management of Unix sockets, where the unix_gc() function fails to properly manage the garbage collection process due to a timing issue. Specifically, there can be instances where the gc_in_progress flag is incorrectly set to false while garbage collection is still occurring, potentially allowing for race conditions.
Such an oversight has serious implications for an organization, as it can lead to inconsistencies in memory management. This could result in memory corruption or unexpected behavior in Unix socket communication, ultimately compromising the stability and security of the systems relying on this communication. Given the role of the Linux kernel in a wide range of devices and software applications, the impact of this vulnerability could be widespread across various sectors leveraging Linux-based technologies.
Potential impact of CVE-2026-53361
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Memory Corruption Risks: The vulnerability can lead to race conditions that may exploit memory corruption scenarios. This may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel, potentially leading to system crashes or data manipulation.
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Service Disruption: Applications utilizing Unix sockets for inter-process communication may encounter unexpected behavior, causing them to crash or behave erratically. This could disrupt services, affecting overall system availability and reliability for organizations relying on critical applications.
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Increased Attack Surface: With the presence of this vulnerability, systems using affected Linux kernel versions could become attractive targets for attackers. The potential for exploiting the faulty memory management may also facilitate further attacks, leading to a broader compromise of affected networks and systems.
Affected Version(s)
Linux ceb8bd6c69c1680fd9b45e7f16d7170c9c7513a5 < 20aa894d475bd8086b25c1113ec4ca70f70c7a98
Linux 328840c93bd6a4871dd10908d01b41eab83eb8e2 < 82c17e13d404f686e164590483fd6c1abaa675d0
Linux 8b90a9f819dc2a06baae4ec1a64d875e53b824ec < 591f1ac217428a6d2b32a8ac14aac0fab44f155a
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.