CVE-2024-50029 is a use-after-free (UAF) vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's Bluetooth subsystem, specifically within the hci_conn component responsible for managing Bluetooth connections. The flaw occurs in the function hci_enhanced_setup_sync, which handles synchronous setup of enhanced Bluetooth connections. During this process, the code fails to properly verify if the ACL (Asynchronous Connection-Less) connection remains valid while the hci_enhanced_setup_sync function is pending on a synchronous command (cmd_sync). This oversight can lead to a use-after-free condition where memory previously allocated for a Bluetooth connection object is accessed after it has been freed. The kernel's Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) detected this issue, showing a slab-use-after-free error triggered by a worker thread handling Bluetooth commands. The vulnerability arises from a race condition between allocation and deallocation of connection objects, where the connection may be destroyed while the setup is still in progress. This can cause kernel memory corruption, leading to system instability, crashes (kernel panic), or potentially arbitrary code execution in kernel context if exploited. The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions around 6.11.0-rc6 and likely other versions incorporating the vulnerable Bluetooth stack code. No public exploits are currently known, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. However, the detailed kernel stack trace and KASAN report confirm the reliability and severity of the flaw. The issue was addressed by adding proper checks to ensure the ACL connection remains valid before proceeding with the setup, preventing use-after-free conditions.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to any systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions with Bluetooth enabled. Many enterprise servers, IoT devices, embedded systems, and endpoint devices in Europe use Linux-based operating systems, including distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, Red Hat, and SUSE, which may incorporate the affected kernel versions. Exploitation could allow attackers to cause denial of service by crashing critical systems or potentially escalate privileges by executing arbitrary code in kernel space. This is particularly concerning for industries relying on Bluetooth connectivity for device management, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and automotive sectors prevalent in Europe. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against critical infrastructure or government systems using Linux-based platforms. The lack of authentication or user interaction requirements for exploitation increases the threat level, especially in environments where Bluetooth is enabled and accessible. The impact extends to availability, confidentiality, and integrity of affected systems, potentially disrupting business operations and exposing sensitive data.

European organizations should promptly apply kernel updates and patches provided by their Linux distribution vendors that address CVE-2024-50029. Since no official patch links are provided yet, monitoring vendor advisories (e.g., Ubuntu Security Notices, Red Hat Errata, SUSE Security Updates) is critical. As an immediate mitigation, organizations can disable Bluetooth functionality on Linux systems where it is not required, reducing the attack surface. For systems that require Bluetooth, implementing strict access controls and network segmentation to limit exposure to untrusted Bluetooth devices is advisable. Employing kernel hardening techniques such as enabling Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) in development environments can help detect similar issues early. Additionally, organizations should audit Bluetooth usage and monitor system logs for unusual kernel errors or crashes related to Bluetooth operations. Incorporating intrusion detection systems capable of identifying anomalous Bluetooth activity can further enhance defense. Finally, maintaining an up-to-date asset inventory to identify Linux systems with vulnerable kernels will facilitate targeted remediation efforts.