CVE-2024-46764 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's BPF (Berkeley Packet Filter) subsystem, specifically within the function btf_name_valid_section(). The issue arises when the length of a name string is exactly one character, and that single character is a NULL byte (0x00). Under these conditions, the function incorrectly returns true, indicating the name is valid, despite it being invalid. This results in an out-of-bounds (OOB) vulnerability because the function fails to properly validate the name string's content and length. The root cause is insufficient validation: the function does not check if the first character is a NULL byte or if it is printable, which allows an invalid name to pass the validation check. This flaw could potentially be exploited to cause memory corruption or unexpected behavior in the kernel, as BPF programs and their metadata rely on accurate name validation. The vulnerability was addressed by adding checks to ensure the first character is not a NULL byte and is printable, thereby preventing invalid names from passing validation. The affected versions are identified by a specific commit hash, indicating this is a recent and targeted fix. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-46764 could be significant, particularly for those relying on Linux-based infrastructure, including servers, cloud environments, and embedded systems. The BPF subsystem is widely used for network monitoring, security enforcement, and performance analysis. Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to cause kernel memory corruption, potentially leading to denial of service (system crashes) or privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities. This could disrupt critical services, compromise data integrity, or enable further attacks within the network. Organizations in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and critical infrastructure, which heavily depend on Linux systems, may face operational risks and data breaches if this vulnerability is exploited. Although no active exploits are known, the presence of an OOB vulnerability in kernel code warrants prompt attention to avoid future exploitation attempts.

European organizations should immediately verify if their Linux systems are running affected kernel versions and apply the official patches or kernel updates that address CVE-2024-46764. Since the fix involves kernel code, updating the kernel to the latest stable release containing the patch is the most effective mitigation. Additionally, organizations should: 1) Implement strict access controls to limit who can load or interact with BPF programs, as exploitation requires kernel-level interaction. 2) Monitor kernel logs and system behavior for anomalies that could indicate attempts to exploit BPF-related vulnerabilities. 3) Employ kernel hardening techniques such as SELinux or AppArmor to restrict unauthorized kernel module loading and BPF program execution. 4) Maintain an up-to-date inventory of Linux systems and ensure rapid deployment of security updates. 5) Consider disabling BPF functionality on systems where it is not required to reduce the attack surface. These measures go beyond generic patching by focusing on reducing exposure and improving detection capabilities.