CVE-2024-53141 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's netfilter subsystem, specifically within the ipset module. The issue arises due to a missing range check in the bitmap_ip_uadt function when handling certain attributes. In particular, when the attribute IPSET_ATTR_IP_TO is absent but IPSET_ATTR_CIDR is present, the values for 'ip' and 'ip_to' are swapped incorrectly. This leads to a missing range validation for the 'ip' value, which should have been performed later in the processing flow but was omitted. The absence of this critical range check can cause improper handling of IP address ranges within ipset, potentially leading to memory corruption or logic errors in the kernel's packet filtering mechanisms. The vulnerability is rooted in the incorrect ordering and omission of validation checks, which could be exploited to manipulate kernel memory or disrupt network filtering rules. The Linux kernel is widely used across many distributions and devices, making this vulnerability significant. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the flaw affects core kernel functionality related to network packet filtering, which is a critical security component. The vulnerability was published on December 6, 2024, and affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel identified by the same commit hash. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no patches or exploit indicators are currently available publicly.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-53141 could be substantial due to the widespread use of Linux-based systems in enterprise environments, cloud infrastructure, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure sectors. Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to bypass or manipulate network filtering rules, potentially enabling unauthorized network access, data interception, or denial of service conditions. This could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network communications. Organizations relying on Linux firewalls, routers, or servers that use ipset for traffic filtering are particularly at risk. The vulnerability could be leveraged to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code in kernel space if combined with other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations. Given the strategic importance of network security in sectors such as finance, energy, healthcare, and government within Europe, exploitation could lead to significant operational disruptions, data breaches, or regulatory compliance issues under GDPR and other frameworks.

To mitigate CVE-2024-53141, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Apply the official Linux kernel patches as soon as they become available from trusted sources or distribution maintainers. Monitor vendor advisories closely for updates. 2) Conduct thorough testing of kernel updates in controlled environments to ensure compatibility and stability before deployment. 3) Review and harden ipset configurations to minimize exposure, including limiting the use of complex or dynamic IP sets where possible. 4) Employ network segmentation and strict access controls to reduce the attack surface and limit potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs. 5) Monitor network traffic and system logs for unusual patterns that could indicate attempts to exploit kernel-level vulnerabilities. 6) Maintain up-to-date intrusion detection and prevention systems capable of identifying anomalous netfilter or ipset activity. 7) Educate system administrators about the vulnerability and the importance of timely patching and configuration management. 8) Consider deploying kernel live patching solutions to reduce downtime and accelerate remediation in critical environments.