CVE-2024-44988 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the Distributed Switch Architecture (DSA) driver for the Marvell mv88e6xxx Ethernet switch chip series. The vulnerability arises from an out-of-bounds access condition in the handling of Address Translation Unit (ATU) violations triggered by CPU Load operations. In this scenario, the Switch Port ID (SPID) can exceed the maximum number of ports defined by DSA_MAX_PORTS, which corresponds to the size of the mv88e6xxx_chip.ports[] array. This improper bounds checking can lead to an out-of-bounds array access, potentially causing memory corruption, kernel crashes, or undefined behavior. Since the vulnerability exists in a kernel driver responsible for network switch management, exploitation could impact network traffic handling and system stability. The affected versions correspond to specific Linux kernel commits prior to the patch that addresses this issue. The vulnerability was reserved on August 21, 2024, and published on September 4, 2024. There are no known exploits in the wild at this time, and no CVSS score has been assigned. The vulnerability requires local kernel-level interaction with the DSA driver, which is typically present in systems using Marvell mv88e6xxx switches integrated in embedded or network devices running Linux. This vulnerability is technical and low-level, affecting the kernel's network switch driver code, and could be leveraged to cause denial of service or potentially escalate privileges if combined with other vulnerabilities.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-44988 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems utilizing the Marvell mv88e6xxx Ethernet switch chips with the vulnerable DSA driver. Such systems are commonly found in embedded network devices, industrial control systems, telecommunications infrastructure, and specialized networking equipment. If exploited, the out-of-bounds access could lead to kernel crashes causing denial of service, disrupting network connectivity and availability of critical services. In environments where network reliability and uptime are crucial—such as financial institutions, healthcare providers, and critical infrastructure operators—this could have significant operational impacts. Additionally, if attackers manage to leverage this vulnerability in combination with other exploits, there is a risk of privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution at the kernel level, which would compromise confidentiality and integrity of systems. However, the lack of known exploits and the requirement for local kernel interaction reduce the immediate risk. Nonetheless, organizations with Linux-based network devices should consider this vulnerability seriously, especially those in sectors with high network dependency and regulatory requirements for cybersecurity.

1. Apply the official Linux kernel patches that address CVE-2024-44988 as soon as they become available from trusted sources such as the Linux kernel mailing list or vendor distributions. 2. Identify and inventory all Linux systems running kernels with the mv88e6xxx DSA driver, focusing on devices using Marvell mv88e6xxx Ethernet switches. 3. For embedded or network devices where kernel updates are challenging, consult device vendors for firmware updates or mitigations. 4. Implement strict access controls to limit local user access on affected systems, reducing the risk of local exploitation. 5. Monitor system logs and kernel messages for unusual behavior or crashes related to network switch operations. 6. Employ network segmentation to isolate critical systems and reduce the attack surface. 7. Use kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and SELinux/AppArmor policies to limit potential exploitation impact. 8. Regularly update and patch all network infrastructure devices and maintain a robust vulnerability management program to quickly address emerging threats.