CVE-2024-42120 is a recently disclosed vulnerability in the Linux kernel, specifically within the Direct Rendering Manager (DRM) subsystem for AMD graphics hardware. The vulnerability arises from an out-of-bounds array access in the drm/amd/display code, where the pipe_ctx array is indexed without proper boundary checks. The pipe_ctx array has a fixed size defined by MAX_PIPES, representing the maximum number of display pipes supported. The flaw allows an attacker to trigger an overrun by providing an index that exceeds this maximum, leading to memory corruption. This issue was identified and reported by Coverity, a static analysis tool, and has been addressed by adding proper validation of the pipe offset before setting vertical blanking (vblank) parameters. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel, as indicated by the repeated commit hash references, and was published on July 30, 2024. No known exploits are currently in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The flaw is a classic out-of-bounds write or read scenario that could potentially be exploited to cause denial of service or escalate privileges by corrupting kernel memory structures related to AMD display management.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-42120 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems running AMD graphics hardware with vulnerable kernel versions. Since Linux is widely used in enterprise servers, cloud infrastructure, and workstations across Europe, especially in technology, research, and government sectors, the vulnerability could be leveraged to disrupt critical services or gain elevated privileges on affected systems. The DRM subsystem is part of the kernel's graphics stack, so exploitation might allow attackers to crash the kernel (denial of service) or potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges if combined with other vulnerabilities. This could lead to data breaches, service outages, or lateral movement within networks. Organizations relying on Linux-based desktops or specialized workstations with AMD GPUs for graphical workloads may also be at risk. However, the absence of known exploits and the requirement for local code execution or user interaction to trigger the flaw somewhat limits the immediate risk. Nonetheless, given the kernel-level nature of the vulnerability, the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is significant if exploited.

European organizations should prioritize applying the official Linux kernel patches that address this vulnerability as soon as they become available from their Linux distribution vendors. Since the flaw is in the kernel DRM AMD display code, updating to the latest stable kernel versions that include the fix is critical. Organizations using custom or long-term support kernels should backport the patch or upgrade accordingly. Additionally, system administrators should audit and restrict local user access to trusted personnel only, as exploitation likely requires local privileges or user interaction. Employing kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR), and enabling security modules like SELinux or AppArmor can reduce exploitation likelihood. Monitoring system logs for unusual crashes or GPU-related errors may help detect attempted exploitation. For environments with high security requirements, consider isolating or limiting the use of AMD GPU hardware until patched. Finally, maintain an up-to-date inventory of Linux systems and their kernel versions to ensure timely patch deployment.