CVE-2024-42092 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) driver for the Davinci platform. The issue arises from improper validation of the number of IRQs (Interrupt Requests) obtained from the Device Tree (DT) data structure. The pdata->gpio_unbanked value, which is derived from the Device Tree, can be corrupted or malformed due to errors in the DT, leading to an unchecked nirq value. This unchecked value can cause out-of-bounds access to the chips->irqs array within the davinci_gpio_probe() function. Such an out-of-bounds access can lead to undefined behavior including potential memory corruption, kernel crashes, or escalation of privileges if exploited. The vulnerability was discovered by the Linux Verification Center using static analysis tools (SVACE). The fix involves validating the nirq value to ensure it does not exceed the maximum number of IRQs per bank, thereby preventing out-of-bound array access. This vulnerability affects specific versions of the Linux kernel identified by commit hashes, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date (July 29, 2024).

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-42092 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems running on hardware platforms using the Davinci GPIO driver, which is typically found in embedded systems or specialized industrial devices. If exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to cause denial of service through kernel crashes or potentially escalate privileges by corrupting kernel memory. This could disrupt critical infrastructure, manufacturing systems, or IoT devices that rely on affected Linux kernels. Given the widespread use of Linux in servers, desktops, and embedded devices across Europe, organizations using affected hardware or custom Linux builds incorporating the vulnerable driver could face operational disruptions, data integrity issues, or increased risk of further compromise. However, the lack of known exploits and the specialized nature of the affected driver somewhat limit the immediate risk to general IT environments. Nonetheless, sectors such as industrial control systems, telecommunications, and embedded device manufacturers in Europe should be particularly vigilant.

1. Immediate application of the official Linux kernel patches that validate the nirq value in the davinci_gpio_probe() function to prevent out-of-bounds access. 2. Conduct an inventory of all Linux-based systems to identify those running kernels with the affected Davinci GPIO driver, especially embedded and industrial devices. 3. For systems where patching is not immediately feasible, implement kernel-level mitigations such as enabling kernel address space layout randomization (KASLR) and other memory protection features to reduce exploitation risk. 4. Monitor system logs for unusual kernel errors or crashes that could indicate attempted exploitation. 5. Engage with hardware and embedded system vendors to ensure updated firmware and kernel versions are deployed. 6. Incorporate static and dynamic analysis tools in the development lifecycle to detect similar Device Tree validation issues proactively. 7. Restrict access to systems running vulnerable kernels to trusted personnel and networks to reduce attack surface.