CVE-2013-6282 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the Linux kernel versions prior to 3.5.5 on ARM v6k and v7 platforms. The vulnerability arises from improper validation in the get_user and put_user API functions, which are used to read from and write to user-space memory from kernel space. Specifically, these functions fail to properly validate certain addresses, allowing a crafted application to read or modify arbitrary kernel memory locations. This flaw can be exploited to escalate privileges by corrupting kernel memory or leaking sensitive kernel data. The vulnerability was actively exploited in the wild against Android devices in late 2013, demonstrating its practical impact. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, requiring only limited privileges and no user interaction. The vulnerability falls under CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation), indicating that the kernel does not sufficiently check input addresses before dereferencing them. Although the affected versions are older and patches have been released since, many embedded and mobile devices running outdated Linux kernels remain vulnerable. The exploitation allows attackers to bypass security boundaries, potentially gaining full control over the affected device's kernel, leading to complete system compromise.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses significant risks, especially for those relying on ARM-based Linux systems, including embedded devices, IoT infrastructure, and Android mobile devices. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and persistent malware installation at the kernel level, which is difficult to detect and remediate. Organizations in sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, healthcare, and government could face operational disruptions and data breaches. The vulnerability's ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously means that attackers could exfiltrate sensitive information, alter system behavior, or cause denial of service. Given the widespread use of ARM architectures in mobile and embedded devices, the threat extends to endpoint security and supply chain components. Additionally, the presence of legacy or unpatched devices in corporate networks increases the attack surface. The exploitation does not require user interaction but does require some level of privilege, which means attackers may need to compromise a lower-privileged user account first, but from there can escalate to full kernel control.

European organizations should prioritize patching Linux kernels on ARM v6k and v7 platforms to versions 3.5.5 or later where this vulnerability is fixed. For devices where kernel upgrades are not feasible, applying kernel hardening techniques such as SELinux or AppArmor policies to restrict access to kernel memory operations can reduce risk. Implement strict application whitelisting and privilege separation to prevent untrusted applications from gaining the limited privileges needed to exploit this vulnerability. Network segmentation and endpoint detection solutions should be employed to monitor for unusual kernel-level activity indicative of exploitation attempts. For Android devices, ensure timely OS updates and restrict installation of applications from untrusted sources. Organizations should also conduct inventory and risk assessments to identify vulnerable devices, especially embedded and IoT systems, and consider device replacement or isolation if patching is impossible. Regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on kernel-level exploits can help detect residual risks. Finally, educating developers and system administrators about secure coding and kernel security best practices will help prevent similar vulnerabilities.