CVE-2024-50030 is a use-after-free (UAF) vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's Direct Rendering Manager (DRM) subsystem, specifically within the Xe graphics driver component (drm/xe/ct). The vulnerability arises in the send_recv() function where improper synchronization leads to a race condition. The issue stems from the lack of proper serialization and memory barriers when handling completion events related to fences that may expire after a timeout. Without correct locking and ordering, the code may access memory that has already been freed, resulting in a use-after-free condition. This can cause undefined behavior including kernel crashes or potential escalation of privileges if exploited. The fix involves acquiring the ct->lock after waiting for the completion event to ensure proper synchronization and prevent the fence from going out of scope prematurely. Additionally, the patch adds logging after acquiring the lock when a timeout occurs, improving observability. This vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash dd08ebf6c3525a7ea2186e636df064ea47281987. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability is technical and low-level, requiring detailed knowledge of kernel internals and access to vulnerable kernel versions to exploit. It does not require user interaction but may require local access or specific conditions to trigger the flaw.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-50030 depends largely on their use of Linux systems with the affected kernel versions and the Xe graphics driver enabled. Organizations running Linux servers, desktops, or embedded systems with this driver could face risks of system instability or denial of service due to kernel crashes. More critically, if exploited, the vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code in kernel context, potentially leading to privilege escalation and full system compromise. This is particularly concerning for critical infrastructure, cloud service providers, and enterprises relying on Linux-based environments for sensitive operations. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability’s presence in the kernel means that once weaponized, it could be leveraged in targeted attacks or by malware to gain persistent control. European organizations with high-value assets or regulatory obligations around data protection should prioritize patching to avoid operational disruption and compliance risks.

1. Immediate application of the official Linux kernel patch that addresses CVE-2024-50030 is the most effective mitigation. Organizations should track kernel updates from their Linux distribution vendors and apply security patches promptly. 2. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, consider disabling or restricting the use of the Xe graphics driver if it is not essential, to reduce the attack surface. 3. Implement kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR), Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI), and other security modules (e.g., SELinux, AppArmor) to limit the impact of potential kernel exploits. 4. Monitor system logs and kernel messages for unusual activity or errors related to DRM or Xe driver components, especially timeout or locking anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Employ strict access controls and limit local user privileges to reduce the likelihood of an attacker triggering the vulnerability. 6. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on kernel vulnerabilities to identify and remediate exposures proactively.