CVE-2026-64217

7.8

Linux · Kernel

A memory corruption vulnerability exists in the Linux kernel network file system implementation due to an incorrect overrun check in netfs_extract_user_iter().

Executive summary

An improper overrun check in the Linux kernel network file system can lead to local memory corruption, potentially allowing a local attacker to achieve complete system compromise.

Vulnerability

This is a memory corruption flaw within the netfs_extract_user_iter function where page array overfills are improperly handled, requiring low privileges and local access with no user interaction.

Business impact

A successful exploit of this vulnerability can result in full confidentiality, integrity, and availability loss on the host operating system. Given the CVSS score of 7.8, the risk is classified as high because an authenticated local user can escalate privileges or trigger kernel panics, resulting in system instability and unauthorized administrative access.

Remediation

Immediate Action: Update the Linux kernel to version 6.6.142, 6.12.92, 6.18.34, 7.0.11, or later as specified by the upstream vendor advisory.

Proactive Monitoring: Monitor local system logs for kernel panics, segmentation faults, and unexpected reboots that may indicate exploitation attempts.

Compensating Controls: Restrict local shell access and apply strict principle of least privilege policies to minimize the number of users capable of executing code locally.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: false

Analyst recommendation

Security teams must prioritize updating vulnerable Linux kernel installations to the patched versions immediately. Because this vulnerability involves deep kernel memory management, applying the official vendor patches is critical to preventing local privilege escalation and maintaining host integrity.

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