CVE-2026-31717
Linux · Kernel
An authentication bypass in the Linux kernel's ksmbd SMB3 server allows attackers to hijack durable file handles.
Executive summary
An authentication bypass in the Linux kernel's ksmbd module enables attackers to hijack durable file handles, posing a high risk of unauthorized data access.
Vulnerability
This is an authentication bypass where the ksmbd server fails to verify if the security context of a reconnect request matches the original file open. An attacker can hijack orphaned durable handles to gain unauthorized access to files.
Business impact
With a CVSS score of 8.8, this is a significant security flaw for file servers. Attackers can gain unauthorized access to sensitive files, violating the MS-SMB2 protocol specification and potentially leading to the theft of confidential information.
Remediation
Immediate Action: Apply the kernel patch associated with commit 49110a8ce654 immediately to enforce durable handle owner validation.
Proactive Monitoring: Monitor SMB server logs for unauthorized attempts to reconnect to existing file handles or abnormal session behavior.
Compensating Controls: Disable durable handle support in ksmbd configuration if it is not required for business operations.
Exploitation status
Public Exploit Available: true
Analyst recommendation
The availability of public exploit code makes this a high-priority remediation. Organizations running ksmbd as an SMB3 server must apply the provided kernel patch immediately to prevent unauthorized file access.