CVE-2024-43847 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the ath12k wireless driver, which supports certain Qualcomm Atheros Wi-Fi chipsets such as the QCN9274 hardware. The flaw arises due to improper handling of ring buffers used in packet processing. In this case, the monitor ring and the REO (reorder engine) reinject ring share the same ring mask index. When an interrupt for the REO reinject ring is received, the driver erroneously processes the monitor ring as well. Since monitor support is not yet enabled in the ath12k driver, this leads to invalid memory access. Invalid memory access can cause kernel crashes (denial of service), data corruption, or potentially open avenues for privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution if exploited carefully. The vulnerability is rooted in the driver’s interrupt handling and ring buffer management logic for fragmented Wi-Fi packets. The issue was tested on QCN9274 hw2.0 PCI WLAN hardware, indicating that affected devices use this chipset or similar hardware supported by the ath12k driver. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The fix involves removing the ring mask for the monitor ring to prevent it from being processed erroneously, thereby eliminating the invalid memory access condition.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-43847 depends on the deployment of Linux systems running kernels with the vulnerable ath12k driver and the presence of affected Qualcomm Atheros Wi-Fi chipsets. Potential impacts include system instability due to kernel crashes, leading to denial of service on critical infrastructure or endpoints. In environments where Wi-Fi connectivity is essential, such as corporate networks, industrial control systems, or public service terminals, this could disrupt operations. Although no active exploits are known, the vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers with local network access or the ability to send crafted Wi-Fi packets to trigger the flaw. This raises confidentiality and integrity concerns if attackers can escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code in kernel space. Given the widespread use of Linux in servers, embedded devices, and IoT systems across Europe, organizations relying on affected hardware and kernel versions should consider this a moderate risk until patched.

1. Apply the official Linux kernel patches that address CVE-2024-43847 as soon as they become available from trusted sources such as the Linux kernel mailing list or vendor distributions. 2. Identify and inventory devices using Qualcomm Atheros QCN9274 or similar chipsets supported by the ath12k driver, especially those running Linux kernels prior to the patch. 3. Where possible, upgrade Linux kernel versions to those including the fix or backport the patch to long-term support kernels. 4. Limit network exposure of vulnerable devices by segmenting Wi-Fi networks and applying strict access controls to reduce the risk of crafted packet injection. 5. Monitor system logs and kernel messages for signs of crashes or unusual behavior related to Wi-Fi packet processing. 6. Engage with hardware vendors and Linux distribution maintainers for timely updates and advisories. 7. For critical systems, consider disabling monitor mode support or the affected Wi-Fi interface temporarily if patching is delayed and operationally feasible.