CVE-2024-26582 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's TLS (Transport Layer Security) implementation, specifically within the network subsystem handling TLS decryption. The root cause is a use-after-free condition triggered by improper memory management during partial reads and asynchronous decryption operations. The function tls_decrypt_sg fails to take a reference on the pages obtained from clear_skb, leading to premature release of these pages by put_page() in tls_decrypt_done. Consequently, when process_rx_list attempts to access the partially-read socket buffer (skb), it operates on freed memory, causing a use-after-free vulnerability. This flaw can lead to undefined behavior including potential kernel crashes (denial of service), data corruption, or possibly privilege escalation if exploited. The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash fd31f3996af2627106e22a9f8072764fede51161 and was publicly disclosed on February 21, 2024. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability arises from a low-level kernel networking component, making it critical to systems relying on Linux for secure network communications, especially those using TLS offloading or kernel TLS features.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-26582 can be significant, particularly for enterprises and service providers that rely heavily on Linux-based infrastructure for secure communications. The vulnerability could allow attackers to cause kernel crashes leading to denial of service, disrupting critical services such as web servers, VPN gateways, and other TLS-dependent applications. In worst-case scenarios, exploitation might enable privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution in kernel context, compromising system integrity and confidentiality. This risk is heightened in environments with high network traffic and asynchronous TLS processing, such as cloud providers, financial institutions, and telecommunications companies. Disruption or compromise of these systems could lead to data breaches, service outages, and regulatory non-compliance under GDPR and other European data protection laws.

To mitigate CVE-2024-26582, European organizations should promptly apply the official Linux kernel patches that address the use-after-free condition in the TLS network code. If immediate patching is not feasible, organizations should consider temporarily disabling kernel TLS offloading features or any experimental TLS acceleration modules until a fix is applied. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual kernel crashes or network anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should implement strict access controls and limit exposure of vulnerable Linux systems to untrusted networks. Regular kernel updates and thorough testing in staging environments before deployment are critical to prevent regressions and ensure stability. Finally, security teams should maintain awareness of any emerging exploit reports or proof-of-concept code related to this vulnerability.