CVE-2024-50128 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the wireless wide area network (wwan) netlink interface code. The flaw arises due to an out-of-bounds (OOB) read caused by an incorrect assignment of the maximum type value (maxtype) in the wwan_rtnl_link_ops variable. This incorrect maxtype leads to improper parsing of netlink attributes, resulting in a global out-of-bounds read when processing these attributes. The vulnerability is analogous to a previously fixed issue in the Qualcomm rmnet driver (commit b33fb5b801c6), indicating a similar root cause related to netlink attribute validation. The kernel's Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) detected this OOB read in the validate_nla function, which is responsible for validating netlink attributes. The bug manifests as an invalid memory read of size one byte beyond the allocated bounds of the wwan_rtnl_policy array. The vulnerability is triggered during the handling of rtnetlink messages, specifically in the rtnl_newlink function that processes new network link requests. The root cause is the use of an incorrect size constant instead of the correct IFLA_WWAN_MAX, which should define the upper bound for netlink attribute parsing in the wwan context. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by sending crafted netlink messages to the kernel's rtnetlink interface, causing the kernel to read beyond allocated memory, which may lead to information disclosure, kernel crashes (denial of service), or potentially facilitate further exploitation depending on the kernel's memory layout and protections. The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions prior to the fix and is relevant to systems using the wwan netlink interface, commonly found in devices with cellular modem support or embedded systems using Linux for network management. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-50128 can be significant, especially for those relying on Linux-based infrastructure with cellular or wireless WAN capabilities. This includes telecom providers, IoT device manufacturers, embedded system operators, and enterprises using Linux servers or network appliances with wwan interfaces. Exploitation could lead to kernel crashes causing denial of service, disrupting critical network services or embedded device operations. In worst cases, the OOB read might be leveraged to leak sensitive kernel memory, potentially exposing confidential information or aiding privilege escalation attacks. Given the widespread use of Linux in European data centers, telecom infrastructure, and industrial control systems, this vulnerability poses a risk to operational continuity and data confidentiality. Additionally, the vulnerability could affect virtualized environments and cloud providers in Europe that use Linux kernels with wwan support, impacting multi-tenant environments. The lack of known exploits suggests a window for proactive patching before active exploitation, but the potential for impact remains high due to the kernel-level nature of the flaw.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernels to the latest patched versions that include the fix for CVE-2024-50128. Specifically, ensure that the kernel version includes the corrected use of IFLA_WWAN_MAX in the wwan_rtnl_policy to prevent out-of-bounds reads. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, organizations should consider disabling or restricting access to the wwan netlink interface if it is not required, thereby reducing the attack surface. Network segmentation and strict firewall rules should be applied to limit access to netlink sockets, especially from untrusted or less secure network zones. Monitoring kernel logs for KASAN alerts or unusual rtnetlink activity can help detect attempted exploitation. Additionally, organizations should audit their Linux-based devices and embedded systems to identify those using wwan interfaces and prioritize them for patching. For critical infrastructure, implementing kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI) and Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) can help mitigate exploitation impact. Finally, coordinate with Linux distribution vendors and embedded system suppliers to ensure timely updates and patches are applied.