CVE-2015-9004: kernel/events/core.c in the Linux kernel before 3.19 mishandles counter grouping, which allows local users...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This is a Linux kernel local privilege-escalation flaw. A user or application already able to run code locally could potentially gain higher privileges through mishandled performance counter grouping. It is not a remote-entry vulnerability, but it matters for shared servers, Android-derived kernels, and systems where untrusted code can execute. Exposure is most plausible on systems running Linux kernels before 3.19, or vendor kernels that backported vulnerable perf event code without the fix. Prioritize multi-user hosts, container hosts, developer workstations, and mobile or embedded builds based on affected vendor kernel lineage. Treat this as a high-priority hardening issue where untrusted local code can run. It is less urgent than an internet-facing remote exploit, but kernel privilege escalation can turn a limited account or app compromise into full system control. Mitigation focus: Upgrade to Linux kernel 3.19 or a vendor-supported build containing the cited upstream fix.; For Android-derived systems, check the May 2017 Android security bulletin and device vendor patches.; Validate distribution backport status rather than relying only on kernel version strings..

Prepared

Jun 13, 2026, 05:01 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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