CVE-2013-2094 is a high-severity local privilege escalation vulnerability found in the Linux kernel versions prior to 3.8.9. The flaw exists in the perf_swevent_init function within the kernel/events/core.c source file. The vulnerability arises due to the use of an incorrect integer data type when handling perf events, specifically in the implementation of the perf_event_open system call. This incorrect data type handling can be exploited by a local attacker to craft a malicious perf_event_open syscall, which leads to improper memory or data handling within the kernel. As a result, the attacker can escalate their privileges from an unprivileged user to root or kernel-level privileges. The vulnerability does not require any user interaction or prior authentication, but it does require local access to the system. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.4 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as successful exploitation allows full control over the affected system. Although no known public exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability is critical due to its potential for complete system compromise. The issue was addressed in Linux kernel version 3.8.9 by correcting the data type usage in the perf_swevent_init function, preventing the crafted syscall from causing privilege escalation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those running Linux-based servers, workstations, or embedded devices with kernel versions older than 3.8.9. Exploitation allows attackers with local access—such as malicious insiders, compromised user accounts, or attackers leveraging other vulnerabilities to gain limited access—to escalate privileges to root. This can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, disruption of critical services, and lateral movement within networks. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the sensitive nature of their data and the criticality of their systems. The vulnerability's local access requirement somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers often chain exploits. Additionally, many legacy or embedded systems in industrial control or IoT devices may still run vulnerable kernels, increasing the attack surface. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not negate the need for remediation given the severity and potential impact.

European organizations should prioritize updating all Linux systems to kernel version 3.8.9 or later to remediate this vulnerability. For systems where immediate kernel upgrades are not feasible, applying vendor-provided patches or backported fixes is essential. Organizations should audit their environments to identify systems running vulnerable kernel versions, including embedded and legacy devices. Restricting local access through strict user account management, limiting sudo privileges, and employing strong authentication mechanisms can reduce the risk of exploitation. Implementing mandatory access control frameworks such as SELinux or AppArmor can provide additional containment. Monitoring system logs for suspicious perf_event_open syscall usage and employing host-based intrusion detection systems can help detect attempted exploitation. Finally, organizations should maintain an up-to-date asset inventory and patch management process to ensure timely application of security updates.