CVE-2024-27039 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically related to the clock (clk) driver for the HiSilicon Hi3559A platform. The issue arises from improper memory management in the driver code where an array 'p_clk' is allocated to hold clock structures that need to be registered. During the registration process, 'p_clk' is incremented in each iteration of a loop. If a call to clk_register() fails, the pointer 'p_clk' may no longer point to the originally allocated memory block that should be freed. This leads to an erroneous call to devm_kfree(), which attempts to free memory incorrectly. The vulnerability is essentially a logic error in resource cleanup that can cause memory corruption or leaks. The fix involves ensuring that the pointer used for freeing memory correctly references the originally allocated block, preventing improper memory release. Although the vulnerability does not have a CVSS score and no known exploits are reported in the wild, it affects the Linux kernel versions containing the affected commit (6c81966107dc0caa5d2ebedbcebb5f10d865064d). This vulnerability is subtle and specific to the HiSilicon Hi3559A SoC clock driver, which is used in certain embedded and networking devices. Improper memory management in kernel space can lead to system instability, potential denial of service, or in rare cases, escalation of privileges if exploited carefully.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-27039 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems running on HiSilicon Hi3559A hardware. This SoC is commonly found in embedded devices such as network routers, video surveillance equipment, and IoT gateways. Organizations in sectors like telecommunications, critical infrastructure, and manufacturing that rely on such embedded Linux devices could face risks of system crashes or denial of service if the vulnerability is triggered. While direct exploitation for privilege escalation is not confirmed, memory corruption vulnerabilities in the kernel can be leveraged in complex attack chains. Disruption of embedded devices could impact network availability or operational technology systems. Given the kernel-level nature of the flaw, affected devices may require kernel patching and firmware updates from vendors. Failure to patch could leave devices unstable or vulnerable to future exploitation attempts. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks, especially as attackers often target embedded Linux devices in critical infrastructure.

1. Identify and inventory all Linux-based devices running on HiSilicon Hi3559A platforms within the organization, focusing on embedded systems such as routers, surveillance cameras, and IoT gateways. 2. Apply the official Linux kernel patches that address CVE-2024-27039 as soon as they become available from trusted sources or device vendors. 3. Coordinate with hardware and firmware vendors to obtain updated firmware images that incorporate the patched kernel version. 4. Where patching is delayed, implement network segmentation and strict access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable devices to untrusted networks. 5. Monitor system logs and kernel messages for signs of abnormal behavior or crashes that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests focusing on embedded devices to detect potential exploitation paths. 7. Maintain an up-to-date asset management system to track affected devices and patch status. 8. Educate operational technology and network teams about the importance of timely patching and monitoring of embedded Linux devices.