Vulnerability in Linux Kernel Affecting IPv6 Packet Handling
CVE-2026-53362

7.8HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

Linux

Status
Vendor
CVE Published:
4 July 2026

Badges

📈 Score: 115👾 Exploit Exists🦅 CISA Reported

What is CVE-2026-53362?

CVE-2026-53362 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically related to the handling of IPv6 packets. The Linux kernel is the core component of many Linux operating systems, managing system resources and facilitating interaction between hardware and software. This vulnerability arises in the ip6_append_data() function, where improper memory accounting can occur during paged allocation when handling fragmented packet data with the use of certain message flags, namely MSG_MORE. If exploited, this flaw could lead to a situation where an unprivileged user can manipulate memory allocation parameters, resulting in a buffer overflow condition. This could allow the execution of arbitrary code or further compromise kernel integrity, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data and system controls.

Potential impact of CVE-2026-53362

  1. Arbitrary Code Execution: The vulnerability can allow an attacker to write past allocated memory boundaries, potentially enabling the execution of malicious code with elevated privileges. This poses a considerable risk as it could lead to full system compromise.

  2. Denial of Service (DoS): Exploiting this vulnerability could result in system instability or crashes, leading to a denial of service for legitimate users. This interruption can critically affect services that rely on the Linux kernel for operational continuity, resulting in downtime and operational loss.

  3. Data Integrity Risks: The exploitation may facilitate unauthorized access to system memory, leading to the potential exposure or manipulation of sensitive information. This could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of data, affecting both organizational operations and compliance with data protection regulations.

CISA has reported CVE-2026-53362

CISA provides regional cyber and physical services to support security and resilience across the United States. CISA monitor the most dangerious vulnerabilities and have identifed CVE-2026-53362 as being exploited but is not known by the CISA to be used in ransomware campaigns. This is subject to change at pace

The CISA's recommendation is: Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.

Affected Version(s)

Linux 773ba4fe9104a64a54d1c00f0fb6ffb95def2b03 < 14200d435af9a9eeb444f529fc2f689a236b7962

Linux 773ba4fe9104a64a54d1c00f0fb6ffb95def2b03 < 65fb14cbebb0cd0eff903a22d33537ddc8b95769

Linux 773ba4fe9104a64a54d1c00f0fb6ffb95def2b03 < 46f201f8b4c39633a1fa3dc12459f506d470993d

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

  • 👾

    Exploit known to exist

  • 🦅

    CISA Reported

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

.