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Use-after-free in Linux kernel TLS async decrypt partial read handling

IdentifiersCVE-2024-26582CWE-416· Use After Free

CVE-2024-26582 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel networking/TLS receive path. According to the provided fix description, in net/tls, tls_decrypt_sg does not take a reference on the pages associated with clear_skb. As a result, tls_decrypt_done can call put_page() and release those pages prematurely. If the skb is then processed further during a partial read, process_rx_list may subsequently access data from the partially-read skb after the backing pages have already been freed, resulting in a use-after-free condition. The bug is specifically associated with the interaction between partial reads and asynchronous decryption in the kernel TLS implementation.

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ANALYST BRIEF

Impact, mitigation & remediation

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Impact

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Successful exploitation can cause kernel memory safety violations in the TLS receive path, including invalid access to freed pages from skb-backed data. The direct impact is a kernel use-after-free, which can lead to denial of service through kernel crashes or memory corruption. Because this occurs in kernel context, memory corruption may also create a path to more severe outcomes such as privilege escalation or potentially arbitrary code execution in the kernel, although the provided content does not confirm a demonstrated code-execution exploit.

Mitigation

If you can’t patch tonight, do this now.

Until patched kernels can be deployed, reduce exposure by disabling or avoiding kernel TLS receive offload/async decrypt paths where operationally feasible, and limit use of affected kTLS functionality on exposed systems. Systems not using the Linux kernel TLS feature in the affected receive/decrypt path are less exposed. General hardening measures such as restricting untrusted network access to services using kTLS and monitoring for kernel crashes may reduce operational risk, but they do not eliminate the underlying flaw.

Remediation

Patch, then assume compromise.

Apply the upstream Linux kernel fix for CVE-2024-26582 that corrects page lifetime management in the net/tls receive/decryption path, ensuring the relevant pages are properly referenced during asynchronous decrypt handling and partial-read processing. Deploy a kernel version that includes the vendor or distribution backport for this CVE. If you maintain a custom kernel, incorporate the upstream patch addressing the missing page reference in tls_decrypt_sg / clear_skb handling.
PUBLIC EXPLOITS

Exploits

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VALID 0 / 0 TOTALView more in app

No public exploit code observed for this vulnerability.

EXPOSURE SURFACE

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VendorProductType
LinuxLinux Kerneloperating_system

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