CVE-2024-56562 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the i3c master driver code. The issue arises from a copy-paste programming error in the function i3c_master_put_i3c_addrs(). The vulnerability involves improper handling of dynamic address pointers during the release of resources. The original code incorrectly frees the 'dyn_addr' pointer instead of the intended 'init_dyn_addr' pointer, which leads to a potential use-after-free or double-free condition. This kind of memory mismanagement can cause kernel instability, crashes (denial of service), or potentially be leveraged for privilege escalation if an attacker can manipulate the kernel memory state. The fix replaces the incorrect 'dyn_addr' reference with 'init_dyn_addr', ensuring the correct pointer is freed and preventing memory corruption. The affected versions are identified by a specific commit hash, indicating this vulnerability is present in certain recent Linux kernel builds prior to the patch. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. The vulnerability is technical and low-level, impacting the kernel's I3C (Improved Inter-Integrated Circuit) master driver, which is used for communication with peripheral devices on embedded and general-purpose Linux systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-56562 depends largely on the deployment of affected Linux kernel versions and the usage of the I3C subsystem. Organizations running Linux-based infrastructure, especially those using embedded systems, IoT devices, or specialized hardware that relies on the I3C bus, could face risks of system instability or denial of service. While the vulnerability does not currently have known exploits, the memory corruption nature could be leveraged by advanced attackers to escalate privileges or cause kernel panics, disrupting critical services. This is particularly relevant for sectors with high reliance on Linux servers and embedded devices, such as telecommunications, manufacturing, automotive, and critical infrastructure. The vulnerability could also affect cloud providers and data centers in Europe that use affected Linux kernels in their infrastructure, potentially impacting availability and security of hosted services. However, the scope is somewhat limited to systems using the i3c master driver, which is not universally deployed across all Linux systems.

European organizations should promptly identify Linux systems running kernel versions containing the vulnerable i3c master driver code. They should apply the official Linux kernel patches that correct the pointer handling in i3c_master_put_i3c_addrs(). For embedded and IoT devices, coordination with hardware vendors and device manufacturers is essential to obtain updated firmware or kernel versions. System administrators should audit device usage of the I3C bus and disable or restrict access to the i3c master driver where feasible to reduce attack surface. Implementing kernel memory protection mechanisms such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI) can help mitigate exploitation risks. Monitoring kernel logs for unusual crashes or memory errors related to i3c can provide early detection of exploitation attempts. Finally, organizations should maintain an up-to-date inventory of Linux kernel versions in use and integrate vulnerability scanning tools that include checks for this specific CVE once available.