CVE-2024-26722 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically within the ASoC (ALSA System on Chip) driver for the Realtek rt5645 audio codec. The issue arises in the function rt5645_jack_detect_work(), which is responsible for detecting headphone jack insertion and removal events. The vulnerability is a deadlock condition caused by the mutex rt5645->jd_mutex being locked but not properly released in certain execution paths. This leads to the mutex remaining locked indefinitely, causing the function to deadlock if called a second time. The root cause is a missing unlock operation in the code path, which prevents other kernel threads from acquiring the mutex and proceeding. The deadlock can cause the affected kernel thread to hang, potentially impacting audio subsystem functionality and overall system responsiveness. The flaw was discovered by the Linux Verification Center using static analysis tools (SVACE) and has been addressed in recent Linux kernel updates. The affected versions include multiple recent Linux kernel commits prior to the fix. There are no known exploits in the wild at this time, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability is a logic error in kernel driver code rather than a memory corruption or privilege escalation issue.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is primarily related to system stability and availability rather than direct compromise of confidentiality or integrity. Systems running affected Linux kernel versions with the rt5645 audio codec driver enabled may experience deadlocks in the audio subsystem, leading to hangs or degraded performance. This could disrupt user experience on desktops, laptops, or embedded devices relying on this audio hardware. While the vulnerability does not directly enable remote code execution or privilege escalation, prolonged deadlocks could necessitate system reboots or cause denial of service conditions in critical environments. Organizations in sectors relying on Linux-based embedded systems with Realtek audio hardware—such as telecommunications, industrial control, or media production—may be more affected. However, the overall risk to European enterprises is moderate given the limited scope and lack of known exploitation. The vulnerability could indirectly impact availability of services or user productivity if unpatched systems encounter the deadlock during normal operation.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize updating Linux kernels to versions where the fix for CVE-2024-26722 has been applied. This involves applying vendor-supplied patches or upgrading to the latest stable kernel releases that include the corrected rt5645_jack_detect_work() implementation. For embedded or specialized devices, coordination with hardware vendors or system integrators may be necessary to obtain patched firmware or kernel versions. Additionally, organizations should audit their Linux systems to identify those using the Realtek rt5645 audio codec driver and assess exposure. Where immediate patching is not feasible, temporarily disabling the affected audio driver module may prevent deadlocks, though at the cost of audio functionality. Monitoring system logs for kernel warnings or hangs related to audio jack detection can help detect attempts to trigger the deadlock. Implementing robust system monitoring and automated reboot procedures can reduce downtime caused by potential hangs. Finally, organizations should maintain strong patch management practices and subscribe to Linux kernel security advisories to quickly respond to similar issues in the future.