CVE-2024-35912 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's wireless driver stack, specifically within the Intel wireless driver component 'iwlwifi' under the mvm (mac80211-based) implementation. The issue relates to improper handling of command response memory in the radio firmware interface (rfi) code path. When the receive (rx) payload length check fails or the kernel memory duplication function kmemdup() fails, the driver fails to properly free the allocated command response memory. This can lead to potential memory leaks or response leaks within the kernel space. Although the description does not explicitly mention exploitation techniques, improper memory management in kernel drivers can lead to resource exhaustion or potentially facilitate more complex attacks such as use-after-free or denial of service. The vulnerability was addressed by ensuring that the command response memory is always freed regardless of the failure conditions, thus preventing leaks. The affected product is the Linux kernel, which is widely used across many distributions and embedded systems. The vulnerability was published on May 19, 2024, and no known exploits in the wild have been reported to date. The absence of a CVSS score suggests that the vulnerability is relatively new and has not yet been fully assessed for severity. However, the technical details indicate that this is a memory management flaw in a critical kernel driver component responsible for wireless communications, which is integral to many Linux-based systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-35912 could vary depending on their reliance on Linux systems with Intel wireless hardware. Since Linux is widely used in enterprise servers, desktops, and embedded devices across Europe, especially in sectors such as telecommunications, finance, manufacturing, and government, the vulnerability could lead to resource leaks that degrade system stability or availability. In worst-case scenarios, if exploited or combined with other vulnerabilities, it could lead to denial of service conditions or kernel crashes, impacting business continuity. Organizations using Linux-based wireless infrastructure or IoT devices with affected drivers may experience intermittent connectivity issues or require frequent reboots if the leak accumulates. Although no active exploits are known, the vulnerability's presence in a kernel driver means that attackers with local access or the ability to send crafted wireless frames could potentially trigger the flaw. This elevates the risk in environments where untrusted users have network proximity or where wireless interfaces are exposed. The impact on confidentiality and integrity appears limited based on current information, but availability and system reliability are the primary concerns.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel versions to the patched releases that address CVE-2024-35912 as soon as they become available from their distribution vendors. Since the vulnerability is in the iwlwifi driver, organizations should verify if their systems use Intel wireless hardware and confirm the kernel version in use. For embedded or custom Linux systems, recompiling the kernel with the fixed driver code is recommended. Network administrators should monitor wireless network activity for unusual behavior or increased kernel errors that might indicate exploitation attempts. Implementing strict network segmentation and limiting wireless access to trusted users can reduce exposure. Additionally, organizations should ensure robust endpoint security controls and maintain up-to-date intrusion detection systems capable of detecting anomalous kernel or wireless driver behavior. Since no known exploits exist yet, proactive patching and monitoring are the most effective mitigations. Finally, organizations should review their incident response plans to include scenarios involving kernel driver vulnerabilities affecting wireless components.