CVE-2024-57907 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically within the Industrial I/O (IIO) subsystem's ADC driver for Rockchip SARADC devices. The flaw arises from improper initialization of a local data structure used to transfer sensor data from kernel space to user space via a triggered buffer mechanism. The vulnerable code only assigns values to active channels using the iio_for_each_active_channel() macro, leaving inactive channels uninitialized. Consequently, when the data structure is copied to user space, it may contain residual kernel memory data from uninitialized fields, leading to an information leak. This vulnerability is a classic example of an uninitialized memory disclosure, where sensitive kernel memory contents could be inadvertently exposed to user space processes. The fix involves zero-initializing the data structure before populating active channel data, ensuring no stale or sensitive data is leaked. The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions containing the specified commit 4e130dc7b41348b13684f0758c26cc6cf72a3449 and similar builds. There are currently no known exploits in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability is categorized as an information leak rather than a direct code execution or privilege escalation flaw, but it still poses a risk to confidentiality of kernel memory contents.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-57907 is the potential exposure of sensitive kernel memory data to unprivileged user space processes. This could include cryptographic keys, passwords, or other sensitive information residing in kernel memory, depending on the system's usage and memory layout. Organizations relying on Linux systems with Rockchip SARADC hardware—commonly found in embedded devices, IoT gateways, and some industrial control systems—may be at risk. The information leak could aid attackers in further reconnaissance or facilitate privilege escalation by revealing sensitive data. Although the vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or system compromise, it undermines the confidentiality guarantees of the kernel and could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack. European sectors with critical infrastructure, manufacturing, or IoT deployments using affected Linux kernels should be particularly vigilant. The risk is somewhat mitigated by the requirement that an attacker must have local access to the vulnerable device to trigger the information leak, limiting remote exploitation potential.

To mitigate CVE-2024-57907, European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to versions where the vulnerability is patched, ensuring the data structure in the Rockchip SARADC driver is properly zero-initialized. For embedded and IoT devices where kernel updates may be slower, organizations should: 1) Audit and inventory devices using Rockchip SARADC hardware and verify kernel versions; 2) Restrict local access to these devices by enforcing strict access controls and network segmentation; 3) Monitor for unusual local activity that could indicate attempts to exploit the information leak; 4) Employ kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and secure boot to reduce the impact of leaked information; 5) Engage with device vendors to obtain firmware updates incorporating the patched kernel; 6) For highly sensitive environments, consider disabling or restricting the use of the affected ADC driver if feasible. These steps go beyond generic patching advice by emphasizing device-specific controls and operational security measures.