CVE-2025-39697: NFS: Fix a race when updating an existing write
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
NFS: Fix a race when updating an existing write
After nfs_lock_and_join_requests() tests for whether the request is
still attached to the mapping, nothing prevents a call to
nfs_inode_remove_request() from succeeding until we actually lock the
page group.
The reason is that whoever called nfs_inode_remove_request() doesn't
necessarily have a lock on the page group head.
So in order to avoid races, let's take the page group lock earlier in
nfs_lock_and_join_requests(), and hold it across the removal of the
request in nfs_inode_remove_request().
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
A race condition in the Linux kernel’s NFS write handling can allow an existing write request to be removed at the wrong time. The supplied CVSS assessment indicates that a locally authenticated, low-privilege attacker could potentially compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Systems using affected kernels and NFS write workloads warrant prompt review.
Executive priority
Treat as a high-priority maintenance issue for NFS-dependent servers, appliances, and multi-user Linux systems. Prioritize exposed or business-critical workloads, but avoid emergency claims unsupported by exploitation evidence. Confirm vendor applicability and schedule tested kernel updates promptly.
Technical view
The flaw occurs between nfs_lock_and_join_requests() confirming that a request remains attached to its mapping and acquiring the page-group lock. During that window, nfs_inode_remove_request() can remove the request. The fix acquires the page-group lock earlier and retains it across request removal, preventing the concurrent state change.
Likely exposure
Exposure is limited to Linux systems running affected kernel builds where the vulnerable NFS write path is reachable. The source bundle lists several affected version identifiers, but their range semantics are unclear. Distribution backports may change whether a particular reported kernel version is vulnerable, so package-level verification is necessary.
Exploitation context
The CVSS vector requires local access and low privileges, with no user interaction. The source bundle does not establish a reliable trigger scenario or practical exploitability. This CVE is not listed as KEV, and the supplied sources provide no evidence of active exploitation or a public exploit.
Researcher notes
The record describes a concurrency flaw in NFS request lifecycle and locking. No CWE is supplied. The listed affected versions are ambiguous and should not be interpreted as clean version ranges. Stable kernel commits demonstrate remediation across branches, but the bundle does not document exploit reliability, triggering conditions, or observed attacks.
Mitigation direction
Install the vendor-supported kernel update containing the applicable stable fix.
Check distribution or appliance advisories because kernel fixes are frequently backported.
Reboot into the updated kernel after installation.
Restrict unnecessary local access while affected systems await maintenance.
Validation and detection
Inventory running kernel versions on systems using NFS clients or mounts.
Confirm the vendor package includes the relevant upstream fix or backport.
After rebooting, verify the running kernel matches the updated package.
Review system logs for NFS errors, kernel warnings, crashes, or unexplained write anomalies.
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-2025-39697 mapping review
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