CVE-2021-47148 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the octeontx2-pf driver component. The issue arises in the function otx2_set_rxfh_context(), which is invoked by ethtool_set_rxfh(). This function processes the '*rss_context' parameter, which is user-controlled input. The vulnerability is a buffer overflow caused by insufficient bounds checking on this user-supplied data, leading to potential memory corruption. Buffer overflows in kernel space are critical because they can allow an attacker to overwrite kernel memory, potentially leading to privilege escalation, arbitrary code execution, or system crashes. The vulnerability was addressed by adding proper bounds checking to prevent memory corruption. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The affected versions are specific Linux kernel commits identified by the hash 81a4362016e7d8b17031fe1aa43cdb58a7f0f163. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for systems running the octeontx2-pf driver, which is used in networking hardware based on the Marvell Octeon TX2 platform, commonly found in high-performance networking and telecom equipment.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-47148 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems utilizing the octeontx2-pf driver. Organizations operating data centers, telecom infrastructure, or network appliances that use Marvell Octeon TX2-based hardware are at risk. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode, leading to full system compromise, data breaches, or denial of service. This is particularly critical for sectors such as telecommunications, cloud service providers, and critical infrastructure operators in Europe, where such hardware is more prevalent. The vulnerability could undermine the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, potentially disrupting services or exposing sensitive data. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the ease of exploitation is moderate since it requires user-controlled input to a kernel interface, which may be accessible locally or remotely depending on system configuration. The absence of authentication requirements for invoking the vulnerable function could increase risk if exposed interfaces exist.

European organizations should prioritize patching Linux kernels to versions that include the fix for CVE-2021-47148, ensuring that the octeontx2-pf driver has the updated bounds checking. Network administrators should audit their infrastructure to identify devices using the Marvell Octeon TX2 platform and verify kernel versions. Where patching is not immediately feasible, organizations should restrict access to ethtool interfaces and related kernel interfaces to trusted users only, using strict access controls and SELinux/AppArmor policies. Monitoring kernel logs for unusual activity related to ethtool or the octeontx2-pf driver can provide early detection of exploitation attempts. Additionally, network segmentation and limiting user privileges can reduce the attack surface. Vendors and system integrators should be engaged to confirm hardware and software compatibility with patched kernels. Finally, organizations should maintain up-to-date incident response plans to quickly address any exploitation attempts.