CVE-2024-27433 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the MediaTek mt7622-apmixedsys clock driver component. The issue arises from improper error handling in the clk_mt8135_apmixed_probe() function. Within this function, 'clk_data' is allocated using mtk_devm_alloc_clk_data(). However, the remove function erroneously calls mtk_free_clk_data() explicitly, leading to a double-free condition. A double-free vulnerability occurs when a program attempts to free the same memory location twice, which can corrupt the memory management data structures. This corruption can potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code, cause denial of service (system crash), or escalate privileges if they can trigger the double-free condition. The vulnerability is rooted in redundant calls to free memory that was already freed, and the fix involves removing the redundant call to mtk_free_clk_data() in the remove function to prevent double-free. The affected component is part of the clock framework for MediaTek SoCs (System on Chips), particularly the mt7622 platform, which is used in embedded devices and networking equipment. 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. The Linux kernel is widely used across many devices and servers, but this specific vulnerability impacts only systems running the affected MediaTek clock driver code, which is more common in embedded and specialized hardware rather than general-purpose Linux servers.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-27433 depends largely on their use of Linux-based embedded systems or networking devices that incorporate the MediaTek mt7622 SoC or similar hardware using the affected clock driver. Organizations deploying such devices in critical infrastructure, telecommunications, or industrial control systems could face risks including system instability or potential exploitation leading to denial of service or unauthorized code execution. While general-purpose Linux servers and desktops are unlikely to be affected, the proliferation of IoT devices and network equipment using MediaTek chipsets means that sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and smart city infrastructure in Europe could be vulnerable. Exploitation could disrupt services or provide attackers with a foothold in the network if the vulnerable device is exposed. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the presence of a double-free vulnerability in kernel code is concerning due to the potential severity if weaponized. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability could be significant in targeted attacks, especially in environments where patching embedded devices is challenging.

European organizations should first identify any devices running Linux kernels with the affected MediaTek mt7622-apmixedsys clock driver. This includes embedded systems, routers, gateways, and IoT devices using MediaTek SoCs. Mitigation steps include: 1) Applying vendor-supplied patches or Linux kernel updates that remove the redundant mtk_free_clk_data() call, thereby fixing the double-free issue. 2) Coordinating with hardware vendors or device manufacturers to obtain firmware updates that include the patched kernel. 3) Implementing network segmentation and strict access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable devices to untrusted networks, reducing the attack surface. 4) Monitoring device logs and network traffic for unusual behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5) Establishing a device inventory and patch management process specifically for embedded and IoT devices to ensure timely updates. 6) Where patching is not immediately possible, consider temporary mitigations such as disabling affected features or isolating vulnerable devices. Given the complexity of embedded device patching, proactive vendor engagement and risk assessment are critical.