CVE-2024-43860 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's remoteproc subsystem, specifically within the imx_rproc driver responsible for managing remote processors on i.MX platforms. The issue arises in the function imx_rproc_addr_init(), where the code uses of_count_phandle_with_args() to count the number of phandles (device tree references) but does not verify if these phandles are empty or NULL. During the parsing loop, of_parse_phandle() may return NULL if a phandle is missing or empty, and this NULL pointer is subsequently dereferenced without a proper check. This leads to a potential NULL pointer dereference vulnerability, which can cause a kernel crash (denial of service) or potentially be leveraged for further exploitation depending on the context. The vulnerability was discovered by the Linux Verification Center using static analysis tools (SVACE). The fix involves adding a NULL check to prevent dereferencing invalid pointers. The vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by commit hashes, indicating it is present in certain recent or development builds. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-43860 is the risk of denial of service on Linux systems running affected kernel versions with the imx_rproc driver enabled. This is particularly relevant for embedded systems, industrial control systems, and IoT devices using i.MX processors, which are common in sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure. A successful exploitation could cause system crashes, leading to operational disruptions, potential safety risks, and loss of availability of critical services. While direct remote exploitation is not explicitly stated, the vulnerability could be triggered by crafted device tree configurations or malicious firmware updates, which might be delivered via supply chain attacks or insider threats. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the presence of this vulnerability in widely used Linux kernels means that attackers could develop exploits in the future. Confidentiality and integrity impacts are limited unless combined with other vulnerabilities, but availability impact is significant in affected environments.

European organizations should prioritize updating Linux kernels to versions where this vulnerability is patched, especially on devices using i.MX processors and the remoteproc subsystem. Since the vulnerability involves device tree parsing, organizations should audit and validate device tree blobs and firmware images before deployment to ensure they do not contain malformed or malicious phandles. Implement strict supply chain security controls to prevent unauthorized firmware or device tree modifications. For embedded and industrial systems, consider implementing runtime integrity checks and monitoring for kernel crashes or unusual behavior related to remoteproc operations. If immediate patching is not feasible, isolate affected devices from untrusted networks and restrict access to firmware update mechanisms. Engage with hardware and software vendors to confirm patch availability and deployment timelines. Additionally, maintain robust incident response plans to quickly address potential denial of service incidents stemming from this vulnerability.