Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: Local Fence Mismanagement in drm/xe
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2025-37869: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: drm/xe: Use local fence in error path of xe_migrate_clear The intent of the error path in xe_migrate_clear is to wait on locally generated fence and the... Affects linux versions < 6.12.25-1. Fixed in 6.12.25-1. 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
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for hardware management, process scheduling, and system security. It is widely used in various distributions, including Debian. The kernel's stability and security are paramount, as vulnerabilities can lead to severe consequences, including system crashes and unauthorized access. This specific vulnerability affects the drm/xe subsystem, which is responsible for managing graphics rendering and memory operations.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the drm/xe subsystem related to the xe_migrate_clear function. The issue arises from the improper handling of local fences in the error path, where the code waits on a potentially unstable fence, leading to a use-after-free (UAF) condition. This could allow an attacker to exploit the vulnerability, potentially leading to system instability or unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability was introduced in version 0 and has been fixed in version 6.12.25-1.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.12.25-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linux
Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds available for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the patch as soon as it is available.
Conclusion
The vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's drm/xe subsystem poses significant risks due to improper handling of local fences. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version 6.12.25-1 to ensure system security and stability. Monitoring tools like Vulert can assist in identifying vulnerabilities in your software.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
The vulnerability involves improper management of local fences in the drm/xe subsystem, leading to a potential use-after-free condition.
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 without any signup.
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to system instability, crashes, or unauthorized access to system resources.
Yes, a patch has been released in version 6.12.25-1 of the Linux kernel. Users should update to this version or later.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is crucial to prioritize updating your kernel as soon as possible to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.