KVM Cache Maintenance Vulnerability in Linux Package - CVE-2026-98471
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2026-98471: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: KVM: SEV: Do cache maintenance on the source VM during intra-host migration Manually perform cache maintenance on the source VM during intra-host migrat... Affects linux versions 6.1.106-1 – 7.3~rc7-1~exp1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is a core component of the operating system that manages hardware and system resources. It provides essential services for all other parts of the operating system, including process management, memory management, and device control. This vulnerability specifically affects the Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) feature, which allows the Linux kernel to function as a hypervisor for running virtual machines. The vulnerability arises during intra-host migration of virtual machines using Secure Encrypted Virtualization (SEV), where improper cache maintenance can lead to stale data being present in CPU caches.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the KVM SEV implementation that fails to perform necessary cache maintenance on the source virtual machine during intra-host migration. When a source VM is converted to a non-SEV VM, KVM's memory reclaim processes do not trigger cache maintenance, potentially leaving stale data in CPU caches after the VM is destroyed. This can lead to security risks, as the destination VM may access outdated or sensitive information that should have been cleared.
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. It is recommended to apply the patch as soon as it becomes available to mitigate any potential risks.
Conclusion
The CVE-2026-98471 vulnerability in the Linux kernel poses significant risks due to improper cache maintenance during virtual machine migration. It is crucial for users to update their systems to the patched version to ensure security and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
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FAQ
CVE-2026-98471 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to improper cache maintenance during intra-host migration of virtual machines using KVM and SEV.
This vulnerability can lead to stale data remaining in CPU caches, which may expose sensitive information to unauthorized access when a virtual machine is destroyed.
You should update your Linux package to the patched version as soon as possible to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. You can check your application against this vulnerability using the Vulert playground without any signup.
Vulert is a tool that monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. It provides real-time alerts for vulnerabilities.
References
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