CVE-2021-47643 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the media subsystem component known as ir_toy. The issue pertains to improper resource management where a free operation is performed before an error exit path is completed, resulting in a memory leak. This type of vulnerability occurs when allocated memory or resources are not properly released during error handling, leading to resource exhaustion over time. The ir_toy driver is related to infrared remote control devices, which are part of the media subsystem in Linux. Although the vulnerability does not directly indicate a buffer overflow or code execution flaw, memory leaks can degrade system performance and stability, potentially leading to denial of service conditions if exploited at scale. The vulnerability was resolved by fixing the error path to ensure proper resource deallocation. No CVSS score has been assigned, and there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. The affected versions are identified by specific commit hashes, indicating that this is a code-level fix in the Linux kernel source. The vulnerability was published on February 26, 2025, and is categorized as a security vulnerability in the Linux kernel media subsystem.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-47643 is primarily related to system stability and availability rather than direct compromise of confidentiality or integrity. Organizations running Linux systems with the affected kernel versions and utilizing infrared media devices could experience degraded performance or potential denial of service if the memory leak accumulates over time. This could affect servers, embedded devices, or workstations that rely on the ir_toy driver. While the vulnerability does not appear to enable remote code execution or privilege escalation, the resulting instability could disrupt critical services, especially in environments where uptime is essential such as telecommunications, manufacturing, or public sector infrastructure. Additionally, organizations with strict compliance requirements may need to address this vulnerability promptly to maintain security posture. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the presence of a fix indicates the potential for future exploitation if unpatched.

To mitigate CVE-2021-47643, European organizations should: 1) Identify Linux systems running kernel versions that include the vulnerable ir_toy driver code by reviewing kernel versions and commit histories. 2) Apply the official Linux kernel patches or upgrade to a kernel version that includes the fix for this vulnerability. Since the fix is at the source code level, distribution-specific kernel updates should be monitored and applied promptly. 3) For embedded or specialized devices that use infrared media components, coordinate with device vendors to obtain firmware or kernel updates incorporating the fix. 4) Implement monitoring for unusual memory usage patterns or system instability related to media subsystem drivers to detect potential exploitation attempts or resource exhaustion. 5) Limit exposure of systems with infrared media devices to untrusted networks where possible, reducing the attack surface. 6) Maintain regular vulnerability scanning and patch management processes to ensure timely remediation of kernel vulnerabilities. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific subsystem affected and the nature of the vulnerability.