CVE-2023-52877 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's USB Type-C Port Manager (TCPM) subsystem. The issue arises from improper handling of error conditions in the function typec_register_partner(), which may return an ERR_PTR value on failure. When this error pointer is assigned to port->partner without proper validation, subsequent dereferencing leads to a NULL pointer dereference. Specifically, the function tcpm_pd_svdm() attempts to access port->partner without checking if it is an error pointer, causing a kernel NULL pointer dereference and resulting in a kernel panic or system crash. The vulnerability is triggered during USB Type-C Power Delivery (PD) communication, particularly in the tcpm_pd_data_request and tcpm_pd_rx_handler functions, which handle PD data requests and reception. The root cause is the lack of a check for the validity of port->partner before dereferencing it. The fix involves adding a validation check to ensure port->partner is not an error pointer before use, preventing the NULL pointer dereference. This vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions containing the affected commit hashes listed, and it was published on May 21, 2024. There are no known exploits in the wild at this time, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions with USB Type-C support enabled, especially those using USB Power Delivery features. Exploitation leads to a kernel NULL pointer dereference, causing a denial of service (DoS) through system crashes or reboots. This can disrupt critical services, especially in environments relying on Linux servers, embedded systems, or IoT devices with USB Type-C ports. While the vulnerability does not directly lead to privilege escalation or data leakage, the resulting instability can impact availability and operational continuity. Organizations in sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure that use Linux-based systems with USB Type-C hardware may experience service interruptions. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack to cause disruption or as a vector to distract from other malicious activities. The lack of known exploits suggests limited immediate risk, but the widespread use of Linux in Europe means that unpatched systems remain vulnerable to potential future exploitation.

European organizations should promptly identify Linux systems running kernel versions affected by CVE-2023-52877, particularly those with USB Type-C hardware and Power Delivery enabled. Applying the official Linux kernel patches that add the necessary validation checks to port->partner is the primary mitigation. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, disabling USB Type-C Power Delivery features or restricting USB Type-C port usage through hardware or software controls can reduce exposure. System administrators should monitor kernel logs for messages indicating typec port registration failures or NULL pointer dereferences related to tcpm_pd_svdm, which may signal attempted exploitation or instability. Incorporating this vulnerability into vulnerability management and patching workflows is critical. Additionally, organizations should ensure robust backup and recovery procedures to minimize downtime from potential crashes. Network segmentation and endpoint protection can help contain any impact if exploitation attempts occur. Finally, staying informed about updates from Linux kernel maintainers and security advisories will facilitate timely response.