CVE-2011-2493: The ext4_fill_super function in fs/ext4/super.c in the Linux kernel before 2.6.39 does not properly initial...

Security readout for executives and security teams

CVE-2011-2493 is a Linux kernel ext4 flaw where mounting a malicious ext4 filesystem can crash the kernel. The known impact is denial of service, not data theft or remote takeover. It matters most on systems where untrusted local users can mount filesystem images or removable media. Exposure is limited to Linux systems running affected pre-2.6.39 kernels or vendor kernels without the backported ext4 fix. Practical risk depends on whether local users or workflows can mount untrusted ext4 filesystems. The provided sources do not identify specific distributions or appliances. Treat as an availability risk for legacy Linux environments. It is not described as remotely exploitable, but a successful local trigger can crash systems. Address through kernel maintenance and mount-permission controls, especially on shared or business-critical servers. Mitigation focus: Upgrade to Linux kernel 2.6.39 or a vendor-supported kernel containing the upstream fix.; Verify distribution backport status against vendor kernel advisories before assuming version numbers are sufficient.; Restrict untrusted local users from mounting arbitrary ext4 filesystems..

Prepared

Jun 24, 2026, 12:34 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.