CVE-2016-9685: Multiple memory leaks in error paths in fs/xfs/xfs_attr_list.c in the Linux kernel before 4.5.1 allow local...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This is an older Linux kernel XFS issue where a local user could repeatedly trigger memory leaks and consume system memory. The expected impact is denial of service, not data theft or remote takeover based on the supplied sources. Exposure is most likely on Linux systems running kernels before 4.5.1, especially where XFS is used and untrusted local users can perform relevant filesystem operations. Public-facing remote exposure is not supported by the supplied evidence. Prioritize in environments with shared Linux hosts, shell access, or multi-tenant workloads using XFS. For single-user or tightly controlled systems, urgency is lower but should still be handled through normal kernel maintenance. Mitigation focus: Update to a kernel containing the upstream XFS memory leak fix.; For Red Hat systems, follow the applicable RHSA advisory guidance.; Check vendor kernel advisories for backported fixes, not only version numbers..

Prepared

Jun 13, 2026, 12:51 UTC (UTC+00:00)

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