CVE-2024-47674: mm: avoid leaving partial pfn mappings around in error case
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
mm: avoid leaving partial pfn mappings around in error case
As Jann points out, PFN mappings are special, because unlike normal
memory mappings, there is no lifetime information associated with the
mapping - it is just a raw mapping of PFNs with no reference counting of
a 'struct page'.
That's all very much intentional, but it does mean that it's easy to
mess up the cleanup in case of errors. Yes, a failed mmap() will always
eventually clean up any partial mappings, but without any explicit
lifetime in the page table mapping itself, it's very easy to do the
error handling in the wrong order.
In particular, it's easy to mistakenly free the physical backing store
before the page tables are actually cleaned up and (temporarily) have
stale dangling PTE entries.
To make this situation less error-prone, just make sure that any partial
pfn mapping is torn down early, before any other error handling.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
A local user or process may be able to abuse faulty Linux kernel cleanup after a failed physical-memory mapping. Memory can be released before related page-table entries are removed, briefly leaving stale references. This could threaten confidentiality, integrity, and availability, although practical exploitation depends on reaching an affected mapping path.
Executive priority
Prioritize remediation on systems permitting untrusted local workloads or protecting sensitive data. This is not described as remotely exploitable or actively exploited, so it generally ranks below confirmed Internet-facing exploitation. Still, its potential kernel-level confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact supports prompt patching during the next expedited maintenance window.
Technical view
PFN mappings lack normal page lifetime tracking. During an error, partial mappings could remain while their physical backing store was freed, creating dangling page-table entries. The upstream correction tears down partial PFN mappings before other error handling. The supplied CVSS 3.1 score is 7.8, with local access and low privileges required.
Likely exposure
Exposure is most relevant on affected Linux systems where untrusted or compromised local processes can reach kernel or driver functionality that creates PFN mappings. Internet exposure alone is insufficient because the stated vector is local. Multi-user systems, workstations, container hosts, and Linux-based appliances warrant inventory review, but the bundle does not identify specific reachable drivers or configurations.
Exploitation context
The supplied bundle marks KEV false, and no cited source states that active exploitation is occurring. CVSS indicates local access, low privileges, low complexity, and no user interaction. A Project Zero issue is referenced, but the provided evidence is insufficient to characterize exploit maturity or real-world prevalence.
Researcher notes
The record links stable-branch commits but does not clearly express complete vulnerable ranges, required subsystem or driver paths, or distribution backport status. Treat the listed version strings cautiously. Establish applicability through vendor package guidance and fix-commit presence. The source bundle does not provide enough evidence to claim reliable exploitation.
Mitigation direction
Upgrade to a vendor-supported kernel package containing the applicable stable fix.
Follow distribution advisories for package-specific fixed versions and reboot requirements.
Restrict untrusted local code and shell access where practical until systems are patched.
Update and retire vulnerable golden images, host templates, and appliance firmware.
Validation and detection
Inventory running kernels with distribution and build metadata, not upstream version numbers alone.
Compare installed packages with vendor advisories and applicable upstream stable fixes.
After updating, confirm systems rebooted into the corrected kernel.
Review container hosts, multi-user systems, appliances, and reusable machine images.
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-2024-47674 mapping review
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