CVE-2024-38585 is a memory corruption vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the tools/nolibc/stdlib component's realloc() function implementation. The flaw arises because the realloc() function incorrectly uses the heap->len value instead of the user_p_len parameter when calling memcpy(). This causes memcpy() to copy more bytes than allocated, specifically an extra sizeof(heap) bytes beyond the intended memory region. Such an out-of-bounds memory copy can lead to memory corruption, potentially causing undefined behavior such as crashes, data corruption, or exploitable conditions like arbitrary code execution if an attacker can influence the input parameters. The vulnerability affects certain Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash 0e0ff638400be8f497a35b51a4751fd823f6bd6a. The issue has been resolved by correcting the memcpy() call to use the user_p_len parameter, ensuring that only the intended memory region is copied. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability was published on June 19, 2024, and is recognized by CISA as enriched data, indicating its relevance to security stakeholders.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate to high risk depending on the deployment context. Linux is widely used across European enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure, especially in servers, cloud environments, and embedded systems. Exploitation could lead to memory corruption resulting in denial of service (system crashes) or potentially privilege escalation or remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities or attacker-controlled inputs. This could disrupt business operations, compromise sensitive data, or impact service availability. Organizations running affected Linux kernel versions in production or development environments are at risk. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk, especially as attackers may develop exploits post-disclosure. The vulnerability's presence in the kernel tools component suggests that development and build environments might be particularly affected, which could indirectly impact software supply chains and development pipelines in European organizations.

European organizations should promptly identify systems running the affected Linux kernel versions, particularly those using the tools/nolibc/stdlib realloc() functionality. Immediate mitigation involves applying the official Linux kernel patch that corrects the memcpy() usage. Organizations should monitor Linux kernel updates and integrate this patch into their update cycles. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, consider isolating vulnerable systems, restricting access to trusted users, and monitoring for unusual memory-related crashes or behavior. Additionally, code audits and testing should be conducted on custom or third-party software that may rely on the affected realloc() implementation to detect any anomalous behavior. Employing memory protection mechanisms such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) and Control Flow Integrity (CFI) can help reduce exploitation likelihood. Finally, maintain robust backup and recovery procedures to mitigate potential damage from exploitation attempts.