CVE-2024-40911 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's wireless networking subsystem, specifically within the cfg80211 component that manages Wi-Fi device configuration and station management. The issue arises due to improper locking of the wiphy (wireless physical device) structure before invoking the function rdev_get_station(). The vulnerability manifests as a kernel NULL pointer dereference, which occurs when the system attempts to access memory at a null or invalid address, leading to a kernel oops and potential system crash. The root cause is a race condition where a Wi-Fi station (STA) disconnects and reconnects before the delayed work function batadv_v_elp_throughput_metric_update() is scheduled. In this window, the ath10k_sta_state() function may be resetting station data while the workqueue accesses it concurrently without proper synchronization. This results in the ath10k_core driver accessing freed or uninitialized memory, causing the kernel panic. The fix involves locking the wiphy device before calling rdev_get_station(), ensuring serialized access and preventing concurrent modification of station data. The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions prior to the patch and is relevant to systems using the ath10k wireless driver, common in many modern Wi-Fi chipsets. No known exploits are reported in the wild as of the publication date, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions with ath10k-based Wi-Fi hardware. Exploitation can lead to denial of service (DoS) via kernel crashes, impacting availability of critical systems, especially those relying on wireless connectivity for operations. This can affect enterprise servers, network infrastructure devices, embedded systems, and IoT devices running Linux. While the vulnerability does not directly allow privilege escalation or remote code execution, repeated crashes can disrupt business continuity and network reliability. In sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure where Linux-based wireless devices are prevalent, this could lead to operational downtime. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack to degrade network performance or cause instability in wireless networks. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the widespread use of Linux in Europe and the importance of wireless connectivity make timely remediation important.

Organizations should promptly update their Linux kernels to versions that include the patch fixing CVE-2024-40911. Specifically, ensure that the kernel version includes the locking fix in cfg80211_get_station() to prevent race conditions. For systems where immediate kernel upgrade is not feasible, consider disabling or limiting use of affected wireless drivers (ath10k) or wireless features until patched. Implement monitoring to detect kernel oops or crashes related to wireless operations, which may indicate attempted exploitation or instability. For embedded or IoT devices, coordinate with vendors to obtain firmware updates incorporating the fix. Network segmentation can reduce impact by isolating vulnerable devices from critical infrastructure. Additionally, review and harden workqueue and wireless driver configurations to minimize race conditions. Regularly audit wireless device drivers and kernel versions in use to maintain up-to-date security posture. Finally, maintain robust backup and recovery procedures to mitigate availability impacts from potential crashes.