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.