CVE-2023-52827 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's ath12k wireless driver, specifically within the function ath12k_htt_pull_ppdu_stats(). The vulnerability arises due to insufficient validation of length fields extracted from HTT (Host Target Transport) messages. These length values, if corrupted or unexpected due to errors, can lead to out-of-bound reads during message iteration and parsing. Additionally, the vulnerability affects the ppdu_info->ppdu_stats.common.num_users field, which also lacks proper validation before use. Out-of-bound reads can cause kernel memory disclosure or potentially lead to system instability or crashes. The issue was discovered during a code review and has been addressed by adding validation checks to ensure that length values and user counts are within expected bounds before processing. The vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash d889913205cf7ebda905b1e62c5867ed4e39f6c2. There are no known exploits in the wild at this time, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The patch details are not provided in the information, but the fix involves input validation improvements to prevent improper memory access in the ath12k wireless driver code.

For European organizations, this vulnerability primarily impacts systems running affected Linux kernel versions with the ath12k wireless driver enabled, which is common in devices using Qualcomm Atheros Wi-Fi chipsets supporting Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). Potential impacts include unauthorized disclosure of kernel memory contents due to out-of-bound reads, which could leak sensitive information. Additionally, exploitation could cause kernel crashes leading to denial of service, disrupting network connectivity and critical operations. Organizations relying on Linux-based infrastructure, including servers, desktops, and embedded devices with affected Wi-Fi hardware, may face operational disruptions. While no active exploits are known, the vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers with local access or through crafted wireless frames to trigger the flaw. This risk is heightened in environments where wireless networks are critical for business continuity or where attackers have physical proximity or network access. Confidentiality and availability are the main concerns, with integrity less directly impacted. The vulnerability does not require authentication but does require the attacker to send crafted HTT messages, which may limit remote exploitation but still poses a risk in wireless network contexts.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernels to versions that include the patch for CVE-2023-52827 as soon as it becomes available. Since the vulnerability is in the ath12k wireless driver, organizations should audit their hardware inventory to identify devices using Qualcomm Atheros Wi-Fi 6 chipsets and verify the kernel versions in use. For devices where immediate patching is not feasible, consider disabling the ath12k driver or the affected wireless interfaces temporarily to mitigate risk. Network segmentation and restricting wireless access to trusted users can reduce exposure. Monitoring wireless network traffic for anomalous HTT message patterns may help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should implement strict physical security controls to limit attacker proximity and ensure that endpoint security solutions are updated to detect potential exploitation attempts. Coordination with Linux distribution vendors for timely patch deployment and testing in staging environments before production rollout is recommended to avoid operational disruptions.