CVE-2024-42162: gve: Account for stopped queues when reading NIC stats
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
gve: Account for stopped queues when reading NIC stats
We now account for the fact that the NIC might send us stats for a
subset of queues. Without this change, gve_get_ethtool_stats might make
an invalid access on the priv->stats_report->stats array.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
CVE-2024-42162 is a Linux kernel issue in the gve network driver. When NIC statistics are read, the driver may incorrectly assume stats exist for all queues, causing an invalid memory access if the NIC reports only a subset. Business urgency depends on whether affected systems use this driver and kernel range.
Executive priority
Treat this as a targeted kernel maintenance issue, not an emergency based on current evidence. Prioritize confirmation of gve usage, then patch affected Linux systems through normal kernel update channels.
Technical view
The flaw is in gve_get_ethtool_stats handling of priv->stats_report->stats. The kernel fix accounts for stopped queues and partial queue statistics from the NIC. The public record lists affected Linux kernel versions including 5.10, 6.9.9, and 6.10, but provides no CVSS, CWE, or detailed impact statement.
Likely exposure
Exposure appears limited to Linux systems running affected kernel versions with the gve NIC driver in use. Systems not using this driver are less likely to be exposed based on the available description. The source bundle does not identify specific distributions, cloud images, or appliances.
Exploitation context
No provided source states active exploitation, and the CVE is not marked KEV. The bundle describes an invalid access during NIC stats reading, not a remote attack path. Evidence is insufficient to claim exploitability, privilege requirements, or business impact beyond possible kernel stability risk.
Researcher notes
The record lacks CVSS, CWE, exploit status, and impact detail. Analysis should stay tied to the kernel fix: stopped queues and partial NIC statistics causing invalid access in gve_get_ethtool_stats. Avoid assuming affected distributions or exploitability without vendor advisories.
Mitigation direction
Apply vendor or stable-kernel updates that include the referenced fixes.
Prioritize Linux hosts using the gve network driver.
Check distribution advisories for backported kernel packages.
Schedule reboot windows where kernel updates require restart.
If no update exists, follow vendor guidance rather than ad hoc workarounds.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux kernel versions across hosts.
Identify systems where the gve driver is present or active.
Confirm updated kernels include the referenced stable commits or vendor backports.
Review kernel logs for gve-related invalid access or crashes.
After patching, verify normal NIC statistics collection in staging.
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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CVE-2024-42162 mapping review
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