CVE-2021-47616: RDMA: Fix use-after-free in rxe_queue_cleanup
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
RDMA: Fix use-after-free in rxe_queue_cleanup
On error handling path in rxe_qp_from_init() qp->sq.queue is freed and
then rxe_create_qp() will drop last reference to this object. qp clean up
function will try to free this queue one time and it causes UAF bug.
Fix it by zeroing queue pointer after freeing queue in rxe_qp_from_init().
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
CVE-2021-47616 is a Linux kernel memory-safety bug in RDMA cleanup code. On a specific error path, the kernel can free the same queue-related object twice, creating a use-after-free condition. The provided sources do not show active exploitation, CVSS scoring, or a remote attack path.
Executive priority
Prioritize through normal kernel patch management unless RDMA/RXE is important in production workloads. Escalate if affected kernels support sensitive multi-tenant, high-availability, or externally exposed infrastructure, because kernel memory bugs can have high impact even when exploit details are unclear.
Technical view
The flaw is in rxe_queue_cleanup handling during rxe_qp_from_init() error processing. qp->sq.queue is freed, then rxe_create_qp() drops the last reference and cleanup can try to free it again. The upstream fix clears the queue pointer after freeing it.
Likely exposure
Exposure likely applies to Linux systems running affected kernel versions with relevant RDMA/RXE code paths reachable. The source bundle lists Linux 5.15 through 5.15.10 and 5.16 as affected, but does not define distribution package status, configurations, or required attacker access.
Exploitation context
The CVE is not listed as KEV, and the supplied sources do not claim active exploitation or provide exploitability details. Treat this as a kernel memory-corruption issue requiring vendor-specific triage rather than evidence of an ongoing campaign.
Researcher notes
Evidence is limited to the CVE record and two Linux stable commits. No CVSS, CWE, exploit status, privilege requirement, or attack vector is provided. Focus validation on affected kernel lineage, commit presence, and whether RDMA/RXE code paths are reachable.
Mitigation direction
Apply vendor kernel updates that include the referenced stable fixes.
Check Linux distribution advisories for exact package versions and reboot requirements.
Confirm the updated, fixed kernel is the one currently booted.
Track vendor guidance if RDMA/RXE cannot be promptly patched.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux hosts and identify kernels matching the affected ranges.
Check kernel changelogs for CVE-2021-47616 or the referenced stable commits.
Confirm whether RDMA/RXE functionality is enabled or operationally required.
After patching, verify the running kernel version, not only the installed package.
Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.
Potential ATT&CK relevance
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CVE-2021-47616 mapping review
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