CVE-2024-41013 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's XFS filesystem implementation, specifically within the directory data block handling code. The flaw arises from insufficient boundary checks when traversing directory entries in the xfs_dir2_data_unused and xfs_dir2_data_entry structures. Prior to the patch, the kernel only verified that the start offset of directory entries was within range, but did not ensure that the entire entry fit inside the valid memory region. This allowed a crafted filesystem image to manipulate the length fields of directory entries, leaving a small space (e.g., one byte) that could be misinterpreted as a valid directory entry during traversal. Consequently, this could lead to out-of-bounds reads when the kernel accessed fixed members of these directory entry structures. The patch introduces additional sanity checks to confirm that the remaining bytes are sufficient to hold an unused entry or a directory entry with at least a single-byte name. It also enforces proper alignment (XFS_DIR2_DATA_ALIGN) for unused entries before accessing them. This vulnerability is a memory safety issue that could potentially be exploited by mounting or accessing a maliciously crafted XFS filesystem image, leading to out-of-bounds memory reads within kernel space. While no known exploits are reported in the wild yet, the flaw could be leveraged for information disclosure or to aid in privilege escalation attacks if combined with other vulnerabilities. The affected product is the Linux kernel, which is widely used across servers, desktops, and embedded devices globally. The vulnerability was published on July 29, 2024, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-41013 could be significant due to the widespread use of Linux servers and infrastructure in critical sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and manufacturing. An attacker who can present or mount a malicious XFS filesystem image could trigger out-of-bounds reads in kernel memory, potentially exposing sensitive kernel data or facilitating further exploitation chains. This could lead to information disclosure, system instability, or privilege escalation, undermining confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems. Organizations relying on Linux-based storage servers, cloud infrastructure, or container environments using XFS as the filesystem are particularly at risk. The vulnerability could also affect embedded Linux devices used in industrial control systems or network equipment, which are prevalent in European critical infrastructure. Although no active exploits are known, the complexity of the vulnerability and the kernel-level impact warrant prompt attention to prevent future attacks. The potential for lateral movement or escalation within enterprise networks increases the threat level for organizations with interconnected Linux systems.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel versions to the patched releases that address CVE-2024-41013 as soon as they become available from their Linux distribution vendors. Until patches are applied, organizations should restrict access to systems that handle untrusted or external XFS filesystem images, including disabling automatic mounting of removable media or network shares formatted with XFS. Implement strict controls and monitoring on file system mount operations, especially in multi-tenant or cloud environments. Employ kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and memory protection features to reduce exploitation risk. Conduct thorough audits of systems using XFS to identify any exposure to untrusted filesystem images. Additionally, organizations should integrate this vulnerability into their vulnerability management and incident response workflows to detect any suspicious activity related to filesystem access or kernel memory anomalies. Collaboration with Linux distribution maintainers and security communities to track patch availability and exploit developments is also recommended.