CVE-2024-46743 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's device tree interrupt handling code, specifically within the function of_irq_parse_raw(). This function is responsible for parsing interrupt information from device tree nodes, which is crucial for hardware interrupt management on systems using device trees, such as many ARM-based embedded devices. The vulnerability arises when the device address provided to of_irq_parse_raw() is smaller than the interrupt parent node's address, as defined by the #address-cells property. This mismatch leads to an out-of-bounds read during the construction of the initial match table for interrupts. The kernel's Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) detects this as a slab-out-of-bounds read, indicating that the code reads memory beyond the allocated buffer size. The root cause is insufficient validation and buffer sizing when copying the device address, allowing the function to read 4 bytes beyond the intended memory region. This can cause kernel crashes or undefined behavior. The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions prior to the patch that copies the device address into a buffer of sufficient size to prevent the out-of-bounds read. The detailed kernel stack trace shows the issue occurs during device addition and interrupt parsing, which are common operations during system boot or device initialization. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the flaw could be triggered by malicious or malformed device tree data, potentially leading to denial of service (kernel panic) or other stability issues. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for Linux systems running on ARM architectures or other platforms using device tree-based hardware descriptions.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-46743 depends largely on their use of Linux-based systems in embedded or specialized hardware environments, such as telecommunications infrastructure, industrial control systems, or IoT devices. Many European telecom providers and industrial firms deploy ARM-based Linux systems that rely on device trees for hardware configuration. Exploitation could lead to kernel crashes, causing service interruptions or downtime in critical infrastructure. While the vulnerability does not directly enable privilege escalation or remote code execution, the resulting denial of service could disrupt operations, especially in environments requiring high availability. Additionally, the instability could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack to weaken system defenses. Given the prevalence of Linux in European data centers and embedded systems, organizations that do not promptly apply patches risk operational disruptions. The lack of known exploits suggests the threat is currently low but could increase as attackers analyze the vulnerability. The impact is more pronounced in sectors with critical infrastructure and embedded Linux deployments, including telecommunications, manufacturing, and automotive industries prevalent in Europe.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel versions to include the patch that addresses CVE-2024-46743. Since the vulnerability is in the kernel's device tree interrupt parsing code, kernel upgrades are the primary mitigation. For embedded and specialized devices where kernel upgrades may be complex, vendors should be contacted for firmware updates or patches. Additionally, organizations should audit their device tree configurations to ensure they are well-formed and do not contain malformed interrupt parent nodes or address properties that could trigger the vulnerability. Implementing kernel hardening features such as KASAN in development and testing environments can help detect similar issues early. Monitoring system logs for KASAN reports or kernel oops messages related to of_irq_parse_raw can provide early warning signs of exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and strict access controls on devices running vulnerable kernels can reduce the risk of remote exploitation. Finally, organizations should maintain an inventory of Linux-based embedded devices and ensure they have a patch management process that includes these systems.