CVE-2024-57980 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's media subsystem, specifically within the uvcvideo driver, which handles USB Video Class (UVC) devices such as webcams. The flaw arises in the error handling path of the uvc_status_init() function. When this function fails to allocate the int_urb (interrupt USB request block), it frees the dev->status pointer but does not reset it to NULL. Consequently, when uvc_status_cleanup() is later called, it attempts to free the dev->status pointer again, leading to a double-free condition. Double-free vulnerabilities can cause undefined behavior including memory corruption, kernel crashes (denial of service), or potentially arbitrary code execution if exploited. The root cause is improper pointer management after a failed allocation, which the patch addresses by resetting the dev->status pointer to NULL after freeing it. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel identified by the commit hash a31a4055473bf0a7b2b06cb2262347200d0711e1. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The issue was reviewed by a security expert affiliated with the Chromium project, indicating a thorough vetting process. The vulnerability is confined to the uvcvideo driver, which is commonly used for USB webcams and similar video capture devices on Linux systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-57980 depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems utilizing the uvcvideo driver, typically desktops, laptops, and servers with USB video devices. Exploitation could lead to kernel memory corruption, causing system instability or denial of service through crashes. In worst-case scenarios, attackers might leverage the double-free to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code in kernel space, compromising system confidentiality and integrity. This is particularly concerning for organizations relying on Linux-based infrastructure for critical services or those using Linux workstations with webcams for remote collaboration. The vulnerability could disrupt business continuity and expose sensitive data if exploited. However, the lack of known exploits and the requirement for the attacker to trigger the specific error path in the uvcvideo driver somewhat limits immediate risk. Still, the presence of this vulnerability in widely used Linux kernels means that European organizations should prioritize patching to prevent potential future exploitation, especially in sectors like finance, government, and technology where Linux usage is prevalent and security requirements are stringent.

1. Immediate application of the official Linux kernel patch that resets the dev->status pointer to NULL after freeing it in the uvcvideo driver is critical. Organizations should monitor kernel updates from their Linux distribution vendors and deploy these patches promptly. 2. For environments where immediate patching is challenging, consider disabling or unloading the uvcvideo kernel module if USB video devices are not required, thereby reducing the attack surface. 3. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on systems with USB video devices to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. 4. Employ kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and Kernel Page Table Isolation (KPTI) to make exploitation more difficult. 5. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on kernel-level vulnerabilities to identify and remediate potential exploitation vectors. 6. Educate system administrators about the risks associated with kernel vulnerabilities and the importance of timely patch management, especially for components handling hardware devices.