Memory Management Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: CVE-2026-98704
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2026-98704: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: wifi: mac80211: keep fallback association elements alive Associating to a non-transmitted MBSSID profile reads freed memory while determining the operat... 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 the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for hardware and software interaction. It is known for its stability, performance, and security features. However, vulnerabilities can arise, such as CVE-2026-98704, which affects the kernel's handling of wireless networking, specifically in the mac80211 subsystem responsible for managing Wi-Fi connections.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2026-98704 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's mac80211 subsystem that allows for the reading of freed memory when associating to a non-transmitted Multi-BSSID (MBSSID) profile. This occurs during the parsing of association response elements, where missing WMM, HT, or VHT information leads to the use of pointers that reference freed memory. The implications of this vulnerability include potential system instability and exploitation by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or crash the system.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
Currently, no specific workaround is provided for this vulnerability. Users are advised to apply the patch as soon as it becomes available.
Conclusion
CVE-2026-98704 is a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel that requires immediate attention. Users should update their systems to the latest patched versions to ensure protection against potential exploitation. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2026-98704 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that affects the handling of wireless networking, potentially leading to system instability.
This vulnerability can lead to reading freed memory, which may allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or crash the system.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
While no specific workaround is available, it is crucial to monitor for updates and apply them as soon as possible to mitigate risks.
Further details can be found in the official Debian security advisories and vulnerability databases.
References
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