CVE-2024-27030 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically related to the octeontx2-af driver, which handles interrupt processing for certain network or hardware functions. The issue arises because the same interrupt handler is registered for both PF (Physical Function) to AF (Application Function) interrupt vectors and VF (Virtual Function) to AF interrupt vectors. This design flaw causes a race condition when two interrupts are raised simultaneously on two different CPUs. In such a scenario, both CPU cores may attempt to process the same event concurrently, leading to data corruption. This concurrency issue stems from improper synchronization and handling of interrupt events, which can compromise the integrity of data processed by the affected system components. The vulnerability has been addressed by implementing separate interrupt handlers for the PF to AF and VF to AF vectors, thereby eliminating the race condition. The affected versions are identified by a specific commit hash repeated multiple times, indicating a particular code state in the Linux kernel source. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability was reserved in February 2024 and published in May 2024.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could have significant implications, especially for those relying on Linux-based infrastructure that utilizes octeontx2 hardware or similar network interface components. The race condition leading to data corruption can affect system stability, potentially causing application crashes, data loss, or inconsistent data states. This can disrupt critical services, particularly in sectors such as telecommunications, finance, and industrial control systems where data integrity and uptime are paramount. Moreover, corrupted data or system instability could indirectly facilitate further exploitation or denial of service conditions. Although no active exploits are known, the vulnerability's presence in the Linux kernel—a widely used operating system kernel in Europe—means that organizations using affected hardware and kernel versions should consider the risk seriously. The impact on confidentiality is limited since the vulnerability primarily affects data integrity and availability. However, the integrity and availability impacts could be severe if exploited or triggered inadvertently in production environments.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to the patched version that separates interrupt handlers for PF to AF and VF to AF vectors, thereby resolving the race condition. Since the vulnerability is hardware and driver-specific, organizations should audit their systems to identify the presence of octeontx2 hardware or related network interface cards using the affected driver. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, consider isolating affected systems or limiting concurrent interrupt loads to reduce the likelihood of race conditions. Additionally, implement robust monitoring for system stability and data integrity anomalies that could indicate exploitation or manifestation of this vulnerability. Engage with hardware vendors for firmware updates or guidance if applicable. Finally, maintain regular backups and ensure disaster recovery plans are tested to mitigate potential data corruption consequences.