CVE-2024-36030 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the Marvell OcteonTX2 network driver component (octeontx2-af). The issue arises from a double free bug in the function rvu_npc_freemem(), where memory that has already been released is freed again. This was detected by the Clang static analyzer (scan-build) at source code location drivers/net/ethernet/marvell/octeontx2/af/rvu_npc.c, line 2184. The root cause is redundant invocation of kfree() on the 'mcam->counters.bmap' memory after it had already been freed by npc_mcam_rsrcs_deinit(). Double free vulnerabilities can lead to undefined behavior including memory corruption, which attackers may exploit to cause denial of service (system crashes) or potentially execute arbitrary code, depending on the kernel's memory management and exploitation conditions. The vulnerability requires local access with low privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and has a low attack complexity (AC:L). The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning exploitation requires the attacker to have some form of access to the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.1, reflecting high impact on confidentiality and availability, but no impact on integrity. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash dd7842878633453e38d6a4927593dd28b9d8ab91, indicating it is a recent issue. The patch involves removing the redundant kfree() call to prevent the double free condition. This vulnerability is relevant for systems running Linux kernels with the affected Marvell OcteonTX2 network driver, which is typically found in specialized networking hardware and embedded systems using this platform.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-36030 depends largely on their deployment of Linux systems utilizing the Marvell OcteonTX2 network driver. This driver is commonly used in high-performance networking equipment, including routers, switches, and network interface cards in data centers and telecom infrastructure. Exploitation could lead to denial of service conditions by crashing the kernel or potentially allow local attackers to escalate privileges or leak sensitive information, impacting confidentiality and availability. Critical infrastructure providers, telecom operators, and enterprises relying on embedded Linux devices with this hardware are at risk. Given the local attack vector, insider threats or compromised user accounts could leverage this vulnerability to disrupt services or gain unauthorized access. The high confidentiality impact suggests potential exposure of sensitive data in memory during exploitation. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits over time. Organizations in Europe with advanced networking infrastructure or embedded Linux deployments should prioritize assessment and remediation to avoid service interruptions and data breaches.

1. Immediate application of the official Linux kernel patch that removes the redundant kfree() call in the rvu_npc_freemem() function is critical. Monitor Linux kernel mailing lists and vendor advisories for updated kernel releases containing this fix. 2. For organizations using third-party Linux distributions or embedded systems, coordinate with vendors to obtain patched firmware or kernel updates. 3. Restrict local access to systems running affected kernels by enforcing strict access controls, limiting user privileges, and monitoring for suspicious local activity. 4. Implement kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI) to reduce exploitation likelihood. 5. Conduct thorough inventory and asset management to identify devices using the Marvell OcteonTX2 driver and prioritize patching accordingly. 6. Employ runtime security monitoring tools capable of detecting anomalous kernel behavior or memory corruption indicative of exploitation attempts. 7. Regularly audit and update security policies to minimize insider threat risks, as exploitation requires local access. 8. Test patches in controlled environments before deployment to ensure stability and compatibility with existing network hardware.