CVE-2024-50055 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's driver core subsystem, specifically within the bus driver API function bus_register(). The issue arises due to a double free condition triggered when an error occurs after the kset_register() call within bus_register(). In this scenario, the private data structure (@priv) associated with the driver is freed twice because the pointer is not set to NULL after the first free operation. This double free can lead to undefined behavior, including potential kernel crashes (denial of service) or memory corruption, which attackers could exploit to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code within the kernel context. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel identified by the same commit hash, indicating a flaw in a particular kernel revision or series. The problem has been addressed by modifying the code to set the @priv pointer to NULL immediately after the first free, preventing the second free attempt. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. However, the vulnerability is significant due to its presence in the Linux kernel, which is widely used across servers, desktops, and embedded systems globally.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions, including servers, cloud infrastructure, and embedded devices. Exploitation could lead to kernel crashes causing denial of service, impacting availability of critical services. More severe exploitation might allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, compromising confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data and systems. Given the widespread use of Linux in enterprise environments, including financial institutions, government agencies, and critical infrastructure in Europe, successful exploitation could disrupt operations, lead to data breaches, or facilitate lateral movement within networks. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability's presence in the kernel means that once weaponized, it could be leveraged in targeted attacks or automated exploit campaigns.

European organizations should promptly identify and inventory all Linux systems running affected kernel versions. Immediate mitigation involves applying the official Linux kernel patches that fix the double free issue by setting the @priv pointer to NULL after freeing. For systems where patching is delayed, organizations should implement strict access controls to limit unprivileged user access to vulnerable systems, as exploitation likely requires local code execution or privileged access. Employ kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR), and enable security modules like SELinux or AppArmor to reduce exploitation impact. Regularly monitor system logs and kernel crash reports for anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. Additionally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential denial of service or compromise scenarios.