CVE-2024-35842: ASoC: mediatek: sof-common: Add NULL check for normal_link string
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
ASoC: mediatek: sof-common: Add NULL check for normal_link string
It's not granted that all entries of struct sof_conn_stream declare
a `normal_link` (a non-SOF, direct link) string, and this is the case
for SoCs that support only SOF paths (hence do not support both direct
and SOF usecases).
For example, in the case of MT8188 there is no normal_link string in
any of the sof_conn_stream entries and there will be more drivers
doing that in the future.
To avoid possible NULL pointer KPs, add a NULL check for `normal_link`.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
This Linux kernel issue can cause a kernel panic when MediaTek SOF audio code assumes a link name exists when it may be absent. The public record does not show active exploitation, CVSS scoring, or a defined attack path. Business urgency depends on whether affected MediaTek-based Linux devices are in use.
Executive priority
Handle through normal kernel patch management unless the organization operates MediaTek-based Linux fleets where unexpected reboots would disrupt operations. Evidence is insufficient to justify emergency response without local exposure details or vendor-specific severity.
Technical view
CVE-2024-35842 fixes a NULL pointer kernel panic risk in Linux ASoC MediaTek sof-common handling of sof_conn_stream normal_link. Some SoCs, including MT8188, support only SOF paths and omit normal_link. The fix adds a NULL check before using that string.
Likely exposure
Exposure appears limited to Linux kernels in the affected version ranges running relevant MediaTek ASoC SOF audio driver paths. The bundle lists Linux 6.0 and affected stable branches including 6.1.75, 6.6.14, 6.7.2, and 6.8, but product-specific distro backport status is not provided.
Exploitation context
The sources describe a possible NULL pointer kernel panic, not code execution. There is no KEV listing and no cited evidence of active exploitation. The bundle does not define whether triggering requires local access, specific hardware, audio initialization, or a particular user action.
Researcher notes
The key uncertainty is triggerability. The record identifies a defensive NULL check for absent normal_link entries, but does not document reachable call paths, privilege requirements, or affected device models beyond MediaTek SoC context and the MT8188 example.
Mitigation direction
Apply vendor or distribution kernel updates that include the referenced stable fixes.
Prioritize MediaTek-based Linux systems using SOF audio paths.
Check vendor advisories for exact fixed package versions and backport status.
Monitor CVE and kernel stable updates for any revised severity or exploit information.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux kernel versions and MediaTek SoC hardware in managed assets.
Confirm whether affected systems load MediaTek ASoC SOF-related drivers.
Verify deployed kernels include one of the referenced stable fix commits or vendor backports.
Review system logs for NULL pointer kernel panics involving MediaTek SOF audio paths.
Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.
Potential ATT&CK relevance
Conservative CVE-to-ATT&CK context
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