CVE-2021-47030 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the mt76 wireless driver, more precisely the mt7615 chipset component. The issue involves a memory leak in the mt7615_coredump_work routine, which is responsible for handling core dumps related to the mt7615 wireless chipset. This vulnerability is analogous to a previously fixed memory leak in the mt7921_coredump_work routine, indicating a similar root cause or coding pattern flaw. A memory leak in kernel space can lead to gradual exhaustion of kernel memory resources, potentially degrading system performance or causing instability over time. Although this vulnerability does not appear to allow direct code execution or privilege escalation, the leak could be exploited to cause denial of service (DoS) conditions by exhausting memory, especially on systems with limited resources or under heavy wireless traffic. The vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash d2bf7959d9c0f631ef860edaf834d55773fdedff, and a patch has been released to fix the issue. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned. The vulnerability is categorized under Linux kernel vulnerabilities and is enriched by CISA, indicating its recognition by cybersecurity authorities. The affected component, mt7615, is a wireless chipset commonly used in various embedded devices and some laptops, meaning the impact could extend to a wide range of Linux-based systems using this hardware.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-47030 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems using the mt7615 wireless chipset. Enterprises relying on Linux servers, embedded devices, or network equipment with this chipset could experience degraded system performance or potential denial of service due to memory exhaustion if the vulnerability is triggered. This could affect critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and industrial control systems that utilize Linux-based wireless networking. Although the vulnerability does not currently have known active exploits, the potential for DoS conditions could disrupt business operations, especially in environments where wireless connectivity is essential. The memory leak could also complicate incident response and system stability, increasing operational costs and downtime. European organizations with large-scale Linux deployments in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and public administration should be particularly vigilant. Additionally, the vulnerability could pose risks to IoT devices and embedded systems prevalent in smart city and industrial automation projects across Europe, where Linux and mt7615 chipsets are used. The lack of authentication or user interaction requirements for triggering the memory leak increases the risk profile, as attackers could potentially exploit the vulnerability remotely over wireless networks.

To mitigate CVE-2021-47030, European organizations should prioritize updating affected Linux kernel versions to the patched releases that address the memory leak in mt7615_coredump_work. System administrators should audit their environments to identify devices and systems using the mt7615 chipset and verify kernel versions against the fixed commit. For embedded and IoT devices where kernel updates may be challenging, vendors should be contacted for firmware updates or patches. Network segmentation should be employed to isolate vulnerable wireless devices from critical infrastructure to limit potential attack surfaces. Monitoring kernel memory usage and wireless subsystem logs can help detect abnormal behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Implementing strict wireless network access controls and disabling unused wireless interfaces can reduce exposure. Organizations should also engage in proactive vulnerability management, including subscribing to Linux kernel security advisories and integrating patch management into operational workflows. For critical systems where immediate patching is not feasible, consider temporary mitigations such as limiting wireless traffic or disabling affected wireless interfaces until updates can be applied.