CVE-2024-57800 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's ALSA (Advanced Linux Sound Architecture) subsystem, specifically related to the memory allocation and DMA (Direct Memory Access) mapping error handling in the snd_hda_intel driver. The issue arises because the driver fails to properly check for DMA mapping errors using the recommended dma_mapping_error() helper function. Instead, it relies on explicit address checking, which is less reliable and can lead to improper handling of DMA addresses. This can cause kernel warnings and potentially unstable behavior when CONFIG_DMA_API_DEBUG is enabled, as the kernel detects that the device driver did not correctly verify the DMA mapping result. The vulnerability is rooted in the snd_pcm (sound PCM) component, where improper freeing of DMA pages and ioctl operations are involved. The fix involves preferring the dma_mapping_error() helper function to detect mapping failures robustly, as recommended by the Linux kernel's DMA API documentation. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the issue could lead to kernel instability or denial of service if exploited, especially in systems heavily utilizing ALSA sound drivers with DMA operations. The vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash c880a5146642e9d35f88aaa353ae98ffd4fc3f99 and was published on January 11, 2025. No CVSS score is assigned yet, and no patches or exploits are currently documented.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-57800 primarily concerns systems running Linux kernels with the affected ALSA sound drivers, particularly those using the snd_hda_intel driver for audio hardware. Organizations relying on Linux-based servers, workstations, or embedded devices with audio functionalities could experience kernel warnings, instability, or crashes if the vulnerability is triggered. This could lead to denial of service conditions, affecting availability of critical systems, especially in environments where audio processing or multimedia services are integral, such as media production, telecommunications, or IoT devices. While the vulnerability does not directly expose confidentiality or integrity risks, the potential for kernel instability can disrupt operations and require system reboots or maintenance, impacting business continuity. Given the lack of known exploits, the immediate risk is moderate, but the vulnerability should be addressed proactively to prevent future exploitation. European organizations with strict uptime requirements or those in sectors like finance, healthcare, or critical infrastructure should prioritize mitigation to avoid service disruptions.

To mitigate CVE-2024-57800, European organizations should: 1) Update Linux kernels to versions where this vulnerability is patched, ensuring the snd_hda_intel driver and ALSA subsystem use the dma_mapping_error() helper function correctly. 2) Enable CONFIG_DMA_API_DEBUG during testing phases to detect any DMA mapping issues early and verify that no warnings or errors related to DMA mapping occur. 3) Audit systems running audio-related services or embedded Linux devices to identify vulnerable kernel versions and plan timely upgrades. 4) For environments where kernel updates are delayed, consider disabling or limiting the use of affected audio drivers or modules if feasible, to reduce exposure. 5) Monitor kernel logs for DMA mapping warnings or snd_hda_intel related errors as early indicators of potential exploitation or instability. 6) Engage with Linux distribution vendors for backported patches and security advisories to ensure timely application of fixes. 7) Incorporate this vulnerability into vulnerability management and patching workflows to maintain ongoing security posture.