CVE-2024-42123 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically within the AMDGPU driver component, which handles AMD graphics hardware. The issue arises in the function amdgpu_umc_bad_page_polling_timeout where the subroutine amdgpu_umc_handle_bad_pages is invoked multiple times under certain conditions. This leads to a double free of the err_addr pointer, a memory management error where the same memory address is freed more than once. Double free vulnerabilities can cause undefined behavior including memory corruption, program crashes, or potentially enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges if exploited. The root cause is that err_addr is not set to NULL after being freed, allowing subsequent calls to attempt to free the same memory again. The fix involves setting err_addr to NULL after freeing it to prevent repeated free operations. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash 1da177e4c3f41524e886b7f1b8a0c1fc7321cac2. This vulnerability is relevant for systems running AMD GPUs on Linux, which are common in both enterprise and personal computing environments. The absence of a CVSS score suggests this is a recently disclosed issue, and further assessment is necessary to understand the full exploitability and impact scope.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-42123 depends on the deployment of Linux systems with AMD GPU hardware. Many enterprises, research institutions, and cloud providers in Europe use Linux-based servers and workstations, some equipped with AMD graphics cards for compute or graphical workloads. If exploited, the double free vulnerability could lead to system instability, denial of service, or potentially privilege escalation allowing attackers to gain higher-level access. This could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical systems. Sectors such as finance, manufacturing, research, and government agencies that rely on Linux infrastructure with AMD GPUs may face operational disruptions or data breaches if the vulnerability is exploited. However, the lack of known exploits and the technical complexity of triggering the double free condition may limit immediate risk. Still, the vulnerability warrants prompt patching to prevent future exploitation, especially in environments where AMD GPU drivers are actively used and systems are exposed to untrusted users or code execution vectors.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernels to versions that include the fix for CVE-2024-42123. Specifically, they should ensure that the AMDGPU driver is patched to the latest stable release containing the err_addr NULL assignment after free. System administrators should audit their environments to identify Linux hosts with AMD GPU hardware and verify kernel versions. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, consider restricting access to vulnerable systems, especially limiting untrusted user or process execution that could trigger the vulnerability. Monitoring system logs for err_addr double free warnings may help detect attempts to exploit the issue. Additionally, organizations should maintain robust endpoint protection and intrusion detection systems to identify anomalous behavior related to memory corruption. Engaging with Linux distribution vendors for timely security updates and applying kernel patches as part of regular maintenance cycles will reduce exposure. Finally, testing patches in staging environments before deployment can prevent unintended disruptions.