Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in kernel-rt Package: Important Security Update
Summary
ALSA-2026:50979: Important: kernel-rt security, bug fix, and enhancement update. Affects kernel-rt versions < 4.18.0-553.153.1.rt7.494.el8_10. Fixed in 4.18.0-553.153.1.rt7.494.el8_10. 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 kernel-rt package provides a Real Time Linux Kernel designed for systems that require high determinism. It is essential for applications that need precise timing and responsiveness. This package is widely used in environments where performance and reliability are critical, such as embedded systems and real-time applications. However, it is susceptible to vulnerabilities that can compromise system security.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-54518 affects AMD Zen 2 processors, allowing for privilege escalation due to improper CPU cache isolation. This flaw can enable an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or escalate their privileges within the system, potentially leading to a complete system compromise. The issue arises from the kernel's handling of CPU cache, which fails to isolate data correctly, making it exploitable under certain conditions.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.18.0-553.153.1.rt7.494.el8_10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update kernel-rtTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can limit access to the affected systems and monitor for any unusual activity. Additionally, disabling certain features that rely on the affected kernel may reduce the risk until the update is applied.
Conclusion
The kernel-rt package is critical for real-time applications but is currently vulnerable to a significant privilege escalation issue. Users are strongly advised to update to the latest patched version to mitigate risks. Regular monitoring and updates are essential to maintain system security.
See every vulnerability recorded for kernel-rt →
FAQ
CVE-2025-54518 is a vulnerability that allows privilege escalation on systems using AMD Zen 2 processors due to improper CPU cache isolation.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without any signup.
The risks include unauthorized access to sensitive data and the potential for attackers to escalate their privileges, leading to a complete system compromise.
It is recommended to regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to ensure your system is protected against known vulnerabilities.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider implementing temporary workarounds such as restricting access to the system and monitoring for unusual activity.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for kernel-rt.
