CVE-2024-46741 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's misc driver subsystem, specifically within the fastrpc component. The issue arises from a double free condition in the function fastrpc_req_mmap(). During error handling, the fastrpc buffer ('buf') is freed twice: once conditionally in fastrpc_req_munmap_impl() if the unmap operation succeeds, and then unconditionally via a call to fastrpc_buf_free(). This logic flaw leads to a double free of the buffer, which is a memory management error. Double free vulnerabilities can corrupt the heap, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, cause denial of service (system crashes), or escalate privileges by manipulating kernel memory. The vulnerability was detected through static analysis (smatch warning) and has been resolved in the Linux kernel. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The affected versions are identified by a commit hash, indicating this is a recent and specific patch. The vulnerability is technical and low-level, affecting the kernel's memory management in a specialized driver, which may be used in certain embedded or specialized systems relying on fastrpc for remote procedure calls.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-46741 depends on their use of Linux systems incorporating the fastrpc driver. Enterprises running custom Linux kernels or embedded devices (such as telecom infrastructure, IoT gateways, or specialized industrial equipment) that utilize the fastrpc component are at risk. Exploitation could lead to kernel crashes, resulting in denial of service, or potentially privilege escalation if an attacker can leverage the double free to execute arbitrary code in kernel space. This could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical systems. Given the kernel-level nature, the impact on cloud providers, data centers, and enterprises relying on Linux servers could be significant if the vulnerable driver is present. However, general-purpose Linux distributions may not include this driver by default, limiting exposure. The absence of known exploits suggests limited immediate risk, but the vulnerability's presence in the kernel codebase means that attackers with local access or the ability to load kernel modules could exploit it. European organizations in sectors like telecommunications, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure that deploy Linux-based embedded systems should be particularly vigilant.

Organizations should promptly apply the official Linux kernel patches that address this double free vulnerability in the fastrpc driver. Since the vulnerability is in kernel code, updating to the latest stable kernel version containing the fix is the most effective mitigation. For systems where immediate kernel upgrades are not feasible, disabling or unloading the fastrpc driver module (if not required) can reduce exposure. Security teams should audit their Linux deployments to identify the presence of the fastrpc driver and assess usage. Implementing strict access controls to limit local user privileges and prevent untrusted users from loading kernel modules or triggering the vulnerable code path is critical. Monitoring system logs for unusual kernel errors or crashes related to fastrpc can help detect attempted exploitation. Additionally, organizations should integrate this vulnerability into their patch management and vulnerability scanning processes to ensure timely remediation. For embedded devices, coordinate with vendors for firmware updates that include the patched kernel.