Linux Kernel Vulnerability in Network Handshake Mechanism

CVE-2026-63979

What is CVE-2026-63979?

This vulnerability in the Linux kernel's network handshake mechanism allows for the release of an unprotected socket file reference during specific operations. A race condition exists where a consumer can cancel a handshake and free a socket's file reference, leading to potential NULL dereference or access to freed memory. Proper safeguards are necessary to ensure that file references remain pinned during handshake processes, preventing unauthorized memory manipulation and bolstering overall system security.

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