CVE-2024-47712 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's WiFi driver component for the WILC1000 wireless chipset, specifically within the function wilc_parse_join_bss_param. The issue arises from improper use of Read-Copy-Update (RCU) synchronization primitives. In this function, the TSF (Timing Synchronization Function) field of the 'ies' structure is accessed after the RCU read-side critical section has been exited. According to RCU usage rules, accessing data protected by RCU after the read lock is released is illegal and can lead to use-after-free conditions or accessing stale or corrupted memory. This can cause unpredictable behavior, including potential kernel crashes or memory corruption. The vulnerability was discovered using a static analysis tool designed to detect RCU-related issues. The fix involves copying the TSF value into a local variable before releasing the RCU lock, ensuring safe access to the data after the critical section ends. This vulnerability affects multiple Linux kernel versions identified by specific commit hashes. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to systems running affected Linux kernel versions with the WILC1000 WiFi driver enabled. Potential impacts include kernel instability, system crashes, or memory corruption, which could lead to denial of service or potentially be leveraged for privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities. Since Linux is widely used in servers, embedded devices, and network infrastructure across Europe, organizations relying on affected Linux distributions or embedded systems using the WILC1000 chipset could face operational disruptions. Critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and enterprises with Linux-based WiFi networking components may be particularly vulnerable. Although no active exploits are known, the nature of the vulnerability—use-after-free due to improper RCU handling—means that sophisticated attackers could develop exploits to compromise system integrity or availability.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to versions that include the patch for CVE-2024-47712. Specifically, they should ensure that their distributions have incorporated the fix that copies the TSF value before releasing the RCU lock. For embedded devices or custom Linux builds using the WILC1000 driver, recompilation with the patched kernel source is necessary. Network administrators should audit their environments to identify devices using the WILC1000 chipset and verify kernel versions. Additionally, enabling kernel hardening features such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR), Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI), and strict memory protections can reduce exploitation risk. Monitoring kernel logs for unusual crashes or memory errors related to WiFi drivers can help detect attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Finally, organizations should maintain a robust patch management process to quickly deploy kernel updates once available.