Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel Affecting Debian Packages: CVE-2025-38468
Summary
CVE-2025-38468: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: net/sched: Return NULL when htb_lookup_leaf encounters an empty rbtree htb_lookup_leaf has a BUG_ON that can trigger with the following: tc qdisc del de... Affects linux versions 5.10.103-1 – 6.9.9-1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of the Debian operating system, responsible for managing system resources and hardware interactions. It provides essential services for all other software running on the system. This vulnerability affects Debian versions 11, 12, and 13, highlighting a flaw in the network scheduling component that can lead to unexpected behavior under specific conditions.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2025-38468 is a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel's network scheduling component. The issue arises in the htb_lookup_leaf function, which can trigger a BUG_ON condition when encountering an empty red-black tree during packet scheduling. This can lead to a system crash or denial of service, as the function fails to handle the scenario gracefully. The root cause involves a series of function calls that result in a NULL return value, causing the system to enter an unstable state.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. However, avoiding the use of the affected network scheduling features may mitigate the risk until a patch is applied.
Conclusion
CVE-2025-38468 is a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel that affects multiple Debian versions. Users are strongly encouraged to update their systems to the latest patched version to mitigate risks associated with this issue. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further enhance security by providing real-time monitoring of vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
CVE-2025-38468 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can lead to system instability and crashes due to improper handling of network scheduling.
The vulnerability affects Debian versions 11, 12, and 13.
You can use the Vulert platform to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring installation. Visit Vulert Scanner.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is advisable to limit the use of affected network scheduling features until a patch is applied.
Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just a manifest file like package-lock.json, making it easy to stay informed about potential risks.
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