Signal Queueing Vulnerability in Linux Kernel Affecting Task Management
CVE-2026-98256
Key Information:
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What is CVE-2026-98256?
A vulnerability has been identified in the Linux kernel related to signal queueing during the exec() process. Specifically, race conditions can lead to use-after-free scenarios within the signaling mechanism, potentially allowing exploitation during instances when tasks are transitioning due to exec(). The flaw arises when a non-leader process executes a new image while signals intended for the original leader remain queued. This situation occurs because signal queues can improperly reference freed memory, leading to instability or information disclosure risks. The recent fix aims to ensure that queued signals cannot be added to dying tasks, effectively addressing the problematic flush timing and potential for critical data breaches.
Affected Version(s)
Linux fb3bbcfe344e64a46574a638b051ffd78762c12d < 621c365739828900f32a0c1cdfe5387528a62176
Linux fb3bbcfe344e64a46574a638b051ffd78762c12d < 934bd95f1a6404dbb845951b823547abab05a649
Linux fb3bbcfe344e64a46574a638b051ffd78762c12d
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.