CVE-2025-38250
Linux Foundation · Linux Kernel
A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the Linux kernel's Bluetooth hci_core component within the vhci_flush function.
Executive summary
A high-severity use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's Bluetooth subsystem could allow an attacker to cause system instability or potential code execution.
Vulnerability
This is a memory corruption vulnerability involving a use-after-free condition in the vhci_flush() function within the Bluetooth hci_core. The vulnerability can be triggered by a local attacker to cause a kernel panic or potentially escalate privileges.
Business impact
Successful exploitation of this flaw could result in a system crash, leading to service disruption and downtime for critical infrastructure running affected kernel versions. With a CVSS score of 7.8, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to system integrity and availability, requiring prioritized patching to prevent unauthorized kernel-level operations.
Remediation
Immediate Action: Update the Linux kernel to the latest version provided by your distribution vendor that includes the fix for this Bluetooth memory management flaw.
Proactive Monitoring: Monitor system logs for kernel panics, segmentation faults, or unusual Bluetooth-related activity that may indicate an attempt to trigger this vulnerability.
Compensating Controls: Disable unnecessary Bluetooth services or kernel modules if they are not required for system operations to reduce the attack surface.
Exploitation status
Public Exploit Available: false
Analyst recommendation
Given the critical nature of kernel-level vulnerabilities, it is imperative that administrators prioritize patching this issue. System stability and security depend on the timely application of kernel updates to remediate the identified memory management defect.