CVE-2024-50071 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's pinctrl subsystem, specifically related to the Nuvoton pin controller driver. The issue arises from a double free condition in the function ma35_pinctrl_dt_node_to_map_func(). In this function, a data structure 'new_map' is allocated using devm_kcalloc(), a device-managed memory allocation function that automatically frees the allocated memory when the device is removed. However, the code also sets a .dt_free_map callback to pinconf_generic_dt_free_map(), which in turn calls pinctrl_utils_free_map() to free the same memory. This results in the 'new_map' being freed twice, leading to a double free vulnerability. Double free bugs can cause undefined behavior including memory corruption, potential kernel crashes (denial of service), or in some cases, privilege escalation if exploited carefully. The fix involves replacing the device-managed allocation devm_kcalloc() with a manual allocation using kcalloc(), thereby preventing the automatic freeing and avoiding the double free scenario. This vulnerability affects specific versions of the Linux kernel identified by the commit hash f805e356313bbcafef48808c14eb9ce7f4ff2560. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability is technical and low-level, affecting kernel memory management in a device driver context.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-50071 depends largely on the deployment of affected Linux kernel versions and the use of hardware platforms that utilize the Nuvoton pin controller driver. Organizations running Linux-based systems on embedded devices, industrial control systems, or specialized hardware that includes this driver could be at risk. Exploitation could lead to kernel crashes causing denial of service, which may disrupt critical services or infrastructure. In worst-case scenarios, attackers might leverage the memory corruption to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, leading to full system compromise. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure where Linux is prevalent. However, since no known exploits exist currently and the vulnerability requires specific conditions (presence of the affected driver and kernel version), the immediate risk is moderate. Nonetheless, the potential for privilege escalation or denial of service in kernel space makes it a significant concern for security teams in Europe, especially those managing Linux-based servers, IoT devices, or embedded systems.

European organizations should prioritize patching affected Linux kernel versions as soon as updates become available that include the fix replacing devm_kcalloc() with kcalloc(). Until patches are applied, organizations should: 1) Identify and inventory systems running the affected kernel versions and check for the presence of the Nuvoton pin controller driver. 2) Limit exposure of vulnerable systems by restricting network access and isolating critical devices. 3) Monitor kernel logs and system behavior for signs of memory corruption or crashes that could indicate exploitation attempts. 4) Employ kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI) to reduce exploitation feasibility. 5) For embedded and IoT devices, coordinate with hardware vendors to obtain updated firmware or kernel images. 6) Implement strict access controls and minimize privileged user access to reduce the risk of local exploitation. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific driver and kernel context of the vulnerability.