CVE-2021-47206 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically within the USB host controller driver for OHCI (Open Host Controller Interface) on TMIO (a platform-specific implementation). The issue arises because the function platform_get_resource() is called without verifying its return value. If platform_get_resource() returns NULL, which indicates that the requested hardware resource is not available or improperly configured, the subsequent code dereferences a null pointer. This leads to a null pointer dereference (null-ptr-deref) vulnerability. Such a vulnerability can cause the kernel to crash, resulting in a denial of service (DoS) condition. The root cause is a lack of proper error handling after retrieving platform resources, which is critical in kernel-level code to maintain system stability. The vulnerability affects certain versions of the Linux kernel identified by specific commit hashes, and it was resolved by adding a check on the return value of platform_get_resource() before dereferencing it. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned. The vulnerability does not appear to allow privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution directly but can cause system instability or crashes when triggered.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2021-47206 is the potential for denial of service due to kernel crashes on affected Linux systems. Many European enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure operators rely heavily on Linux-based servers and embedded systems, including those using OHCI USB host controllers on TMIO platforms. A successful exploitation could disrupt operations, cause system downtime, and impact availability of critical services. Although this vulnerability does not directly compromise confidentiality or integrity, the resulting system crashes could lead to operational interruptions, data loss in volatile memory, or trigger failover mechanisms that might degrade service quality. Organizations with automated USB device management or those using USB peripherals extensively in industrial control systems or embedded devices could be more vulnerable. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability should be addressed promptly to prevent potential future exploitation, especially in environments where system availability is critical.

To mitigate CVE-2021-47206, European organizations should: 1) Apply the latest Linux kernel patches that include the fix for this vulnerability, ensuring that the platform_get_resource() return value is properly checked before use. 2) Conduct an inventory of systems running affected Linux kernel versions, particularly those using OHCI USB host controllers on TMIO platforms, to prioritize patching. 3) Implement kernel crash monitoring and alerting to detect any null pointer dereference events promptly. 4) For embedded or specialized devices where kernel updates are less frequent, consider applying vendor-provided firmware or kernel updates or consult with hardware vendors for mitigations. 5) Restrict physical or remote access to USB ports where feasible to reduce the attack surface, especially in sensitive environments. 6) Incorporate this vulnerability into vulnerability management and patch management workflows to ensure timely remediation. 7) Test patches in controlled environments to avoid unintended disruptions before wide deployment.