Critical Use-After-Free Vulnerability in Linux Kernel - CVE-2024-39494
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-39494: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: ima: Fix use-after-free on a dentry's dname.name ->d_name.name can change on rename and the earlier value can be freed; there are conditions sufficient... Affects linux versions < 5.10.237-1. Fixed in 5.10.237-1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing hardware and system resources. It provides essential services for all other parts of the operating system. The kernel is known for its stability, performance, and security, but like any complex software, it can have vulnerabilities. CVE-2024-39494 is a significant vulnerability that affects various versions of the Linux kernel across multiple Debian releases.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a use-after-free vulnerability has been identified in the IMA (Integrity Measurement Architecture) subsystem. This issue arises when the dentry's d_name.name can change during a rename operation, leading to potential exploitation if the earlier value is freed. The vulnerability occurs due to inadequate locking mechanisms around the dentry and its parent, which could allow an attacker to manipulate memory and execute arbitrary code, resulting in system compromise.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.10.237-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linuxTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, no specific workarounds are provided for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the available patches as soon as they are released.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-39494 represents a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel that requires immediate attention. Users are urged to update their systems to the patched versions to protect against potential exploitation. Utilizing tools like Vulert can enhance vulnerability management and ensure ongoing security.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
CVE-2024-39494 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can lead to memory corruption and potential system compromise.
The vulnerability affects multiple Debian releases, including Debian 11, 12, 13, and 14, with specific versions needing updates.
You can use tools like Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected.
While no specific workarounds are available, it is crucial to prioritize updating your system to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Vulert uses a manifest file like package-lock.json to monitor and alert in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities without requiring code access or installation.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
