CVE-2024-26825: nfc: nci: free rx_data_reassembly skb on NCI device cleanup
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
nfc: nci: free rx_data_reassembly skb on NCI device cleanup
rx_data_reassembly skb is stored during NCI data exchange for processing
fragmented packets. It is dropped only when the last fragment is processed
or when an NTF packet with NCI_OP_RF_DEACTIVATE_NTF opcode is received.
However, the NCI device may be deallocated before that which leads to skb
leak.
As by design the rx_data_reassembly skb is bound to the NCI device and
nothing prevents the device to be freed before the skb is processed in
some way and cleaned, free it on the NCI device cleanup.
Found by Linux Verification Center (linuxtesting.org) with Syzkaller.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
CVE-2024-26825 is a Linux kernel NFC/NCI cleanup flaw. During fragmented NFC data handling, a stored network buffer may not be freed if the NCI device is removed first. The described impact is a kernel memory leak, so business urgency is mainly availability and hygiene, not confirmed data theft or remote takeover.
Executive priority
Treat this as a routine but real kernel maintenance item. It is not listed as actively exploited in the provided sources, but affected Linux systems should receive normal security updates, especially devices with NFC capabilities or long-lived kernels.
Technical view
The Linux NFC NCI path stores rx_data_reassembly skb while processing fragmented packets. It was freed after final fragment handling or RF deactivate notification, but not necessarily during NCI device cleanup. The fix frees that skb when the NCI device is cleaned up. Syzkaller found the issue via Linux Verification Center.
Likely exposure
Exposure is likely limited to systems running affected Linux kernel versions with NFC/NCI functionality present or enabled. The CVE source lists Linux kernel versions including 3.2 through 6.8 and multiple stable-branch fixes. Distribution exposure depends on vendor backports and package status.
Exploitation context
The source bundle does not show CISA KEV listing, public exploitation, CVSS, or a weaponized exploit. Evidence supports a memory-leak condition in kernel NFC/NCI cleanup, not confirmed active exploitation. Practical impact depends on whether an attacker can trigger relevant NFC/NCI device and fragmented packet behavior.
Researcher notes
Focus review on nfc/nci device lifecycle handling and rx_data_reassembly skb ownership. The evidence describes a leak when NCI device deallocation occurs before normal fragment completion or deactivate notification cleanup. Impact beyond resource leakage is not established in the provided sources.
Mitigation direction
Apply vendor kernel updates that include the referenced stable fixes.
For Debian LTS systems, review the cited Debian advisories and update affected kernel packages.
Confirm whether NFC/NCI support is present on exposed Linux assets.
If patch timing is constrained, request vendor guidance for temporary NFC/NCI risk reduction.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux kernel versions across servers, workstations, and embedded devices.
Check vendor package changelogs for CVE-2024-26825 or the referenced kernel commits.
Identify systems with NFC hardware, NFC services, or NCI kernel support enabled.
Prioritize validation on endpoints and embedded devices more likely to include NFC.
Re-scan after patching to confirm fixed kernel packages are installed.
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-2024-26825 mapping review
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