CVE-2024-47703: bpf, lsm: Add check for BPF LSM return value
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
bpf, lsm: Add check for BPF LSM return value
A bpf prog returning a positive number attached to file_alloc_security
hook makes kernel panic.
This happens because file system can not filter out the positive number
returned by the LSM prog using IS_ERR, and misinterprets this positive
number as a file pointer.
Given that hook file_alloc_security never returned positive number
before the introduction of BPF LSM, and other BPF LSM hooks may
encounter similar issues, this patch adds LSM return value check
in verifier, to ensure no unexpected value is returned.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
A locally executed BPF security program can return an unexpected positive value that Linux mistakes for a file pointer, causing a kernel panic. This can crash an affected host. The supplied record rates the issue 7.8 High, but the description directly demonstrates availability impact rather than data theft or modification.
Executive priority
Treat as a high-priority stability issue on shared, multi-user, or BPF-enabled Linux hosts. Patch through supported distribution channels after compatibility testing. Lower priority may be reasonable where local access and BPF program loading are strongly restricted, but confirm those controls rather than assuming protection.
Technical view
A BPF LSM program attached to file_alloc_security can return a positive integer. Filesystem code does not reject it through IS_ERR and may interpret it as a file pointer, triggering a kernel panic. The resolution adds verifier validation for BPF LSM return values to prevent unexpected positive results, with concern that other hooks could behave similarly.
Likely exposure
Exposure requires local, low-privilege access under the supplied CVSS vector and the ability to load and attach a BPF LSM program. Risk is greatest on shared or multi-user Linux systems where that capability is available. The supplied version data includes Linux 5.7, 6.10.13, 6.11.2, and 6.12, but is insufficient for precise distribution-level conclusions.
Exploitation context
The supplied sources do not establish active exploitation, and the CVE is not marked as present in CISA KEV. Exploitation is local, requires low privileges according to the CVSS vector, needs no user interaction, and has low stated complexity. No remote attack path is described.
Researcher notes
The documented failure is improper return-value validation at the BPF LSM verifier boundary. A positive file_alloc_security result bypasses error-pointer handling and is consumed as a pointer. Although CVSS assigns high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, the supplied narrative specifically substantiates kernel panic. Exact vulnerable ranges and backport coverage require vendor confirmation.
Mitigation direction
Apply a vendor-supported kernel update incorporating the cited BPF LSM verifier correction.
Check Linux distribution advisories for exact affected and fixed package versions.
Restrict untrusted users from loading or attaching BPF programs where operationally feasible.
Prioritize shared hosts where local users or workloads can access BPF LSM capabilities.
Validation and detection
Record running kernel and distribution package versions across Linux assets.
Compare each package against current distribution advisories for CVE-2024-47703.
Verify whether untrusted principals can load and attach BPF LSM programs.
Confirm the installed kernel includes the vendor backport or a cited corrective commit.
Review kernel panic records for events associated with BPF LSM activity.
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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