CVE-2024-49950 is a use-after-free (UAF) vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's Bluetooth subsystem, specifically within the L2CAP (Logical Link Control and Adaptation Protocol) layer. The vulnerability arises in the l2cap_connect function, which handles connection establishment for Bluetooth L2CAP channels. The issue was detected by Syzbot, an automated kernel fuzzer, and involves a slab-use-after-free condition triggered during the processing of L2CAP connection requests. The kernel's Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) detected a read of freed memory, indicating that a pointer to a previously freed object was accessed, leading to undefined behavior. The call trace shows that the flaw occurs during the handling of Bluetooth signaling commands and connection confirmation routines, involving functions such as l2cap_connect_req, l2cap_bredr_sig_cmd, and l2cap_connect_cfm. The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker capable of sending crafted Bluetooth packets to a vulnerable Linux system, potentially causing memory corruption. This could lead to kernel crashes (denial of service) or, in a worst-case scenario, privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution within the kernel context. The affected versions correspond to recent Linux kernel commits prior to the fix, including kernel version 6.11.0-rc6 and similar. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no known exploits are reported in the wild at this time. The vulnerability is critical because it affects the kernel's Bluetooth stack, a core component responsible for wireless communication, and use-after-free bugs are often exploitable for privilege escalation or system compromise.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-49950 could be significant, especially for those relying on Linux-based systems with Bluetooth enabled. This includes enterprises using Linux servers, desktops, embedded devices, and IoT infrastructure that support Bluetooth connectivity. Exploitation could lead to denial of service through kernel crashes, disrupting business operations, or potentially allow attackers to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. This is particularly concerning for sectors with high Bluetooth usage such as manufacturing (industrial IoT), healthcare (medical devices), transportation (vehicle systems), and public services. Additionally, organizations with remote or mobile workforces using Linux laptops with Bluetooth peripherals could be exposed to targeted attacks. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against critical infrastructure or government systems that utilize Linux-based Bluetooth communications. Given the kernel-level nature of the flaw, successful exploitation could undermine system integrity and confidentiality, leading to data breaches or persistent footholds within networks.

To mitigate CVE-2024-49950, organizations should promptly apply the official Linux kernel patches once released. Until patches are available, consider the following specific mitigations: 1) Disable Bluetooth functionality on Linux systems where it is not essential, reducing the attack surface. 2) For systems requiring Bluetooth, restrict Bluetooth device pairing and connections to trusted devices only, leveraging MAC address filtering and secure pairing methods. 3) Monitor kernel logs and system behavior for unusual Bluetooth-related errors or crashes that could indicate exploitation attempts. 4) Employ kernel hardening techniques such as enabling Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) in testing environments to detect similar issues proactively. 5) Use network segmentation and endpoint protection to limit lateral movement if a system is compromised via this vulnerability. 6) Maintain up-to-date inventories of Linux systems and their kernel versions to prioritize patching and risk assessment. 7) For embedded or IoT devices running Linux with Bluetooth, coordinate with vendors for firmware updates addressing this vulnerability.