CVE-2024-41076 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the NFSv4 (Network File System version 4) implementation. The issue arises in the function nfs4_set_security_label, where a memory leak occurs each time a security extended attribute (xattr) is set. The vulnerability causes the kernel to leak memory related to nfs_fattr (NFS file attributes) and nfs4_label structures. This leak can lead to gradual exhaustion of kernel memory resources, potentially degrading system performance or causing instability over time. The vulnerability does not appear to allow direct code execution or privilege escalation but can impact system reliability and availability due to resource depletion. The affected versions are identified by a specific commit hash, indicating that the issue is present in certain recent Linux kernel builds prior to the patch. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability was published on July 29, 2024, and has been acknowledged by the Linux project, with a fix implemented to address the memory leak.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-41076 primarily concerns system stability and availability rather than direct compromise of confidentiality or integrity. Organizations running Linux servers that utilize NFSv4 for file sharing—common in enterprise environments for centralized storage—may experience degraded performance or system crashes if the vulnerability is exploited through repeated setting of security extended attributes. This could disrupt critical business operations, especially in sectors relying heavily on Linux-based infrastructure such as finance, telecommunications, research institutions, and public sector services. While the vulnerability does not currently have known exploits, the risk of denial-of-service conditions due to memory exhaustion could affect service continuity. Additionally, organizations with large-scale NFS deployments or automated systems that frequently modify security labels on files are more susceptible to encountering this issue. The absence of a direct exploit reduces immediate risk, but unpatched systems remain vulnerable to potential future exploitation or accidental resource depletion.

To mitigate CVE-2024-41076, European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to the latest patched version that addresses the memory leak in nfs4_set_security_label. System administrators should audit their NFSv4 usage patterns, particularly focusing on operations that set security extended attributes, to identify and limit unnecessary or excessive use. Implement monitoring of kernel memory usage and system logs to detect abnormal memory consumption trends that could indicate exploitation or triggering of the leak. Where feasible, consider isolating critical NFS servers or applying resource limits to prevent a single process from exhausting kernel memory. Additionally, organizations should maintain robust patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of kernel updates. For environments where immediate patching is not possible, temporary workarounds might include reducing the frequency of security label modifications or disabling NFSv4 security labeling features if they are not essential. Regular backups and system redundancy can also help mitigate availability impacts in case of system instability.