CVE-2024-57998 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel related to the Operating Performance Points (OPP) subsystem, which manages frequency scaling for power management. The flaw arises from a missing index boundary check in the _read_freq() function when accessing the opp->rates[] table. Specifically, the vulnerability occurs because the frequency index passed to the assert function was not properly validated, potentially allowing an out-of-bounds read of the frequency table. This can happen when the indexed variants of frequency lookup functions—dev_pm_opp_find_freq_exact_indexed(), dev_pm_opp_find_freq_ceil_indexed(), and dev_pm_opp_find_freq_floor_indexed()—call _read_freq() without sufficient index validation. The patch introduces an additional parameter to the assert function and implements assert_clk_index(), which performs the necessary clock index validation to prevent buffer overflow by ensuring the frequency index does not exceed the bounds of the opp->rates[] array. This fix prevents potential memory corruption scenarios caused by reading beyond allocated memory in the kernel's power management code. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability could theoretically be leveraged to cause kernel crashes or potentially escalate privileges if exploited by a local attacker or malicious kernel module. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel as indicated by the affected commit hashes, and it is critical for systems relying on Linux kernel power management features, especially embedded or mobile devices where OPP is commonly used for CPU frequency scaling.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-57998 could be significant depending on the deployment environment. Linux is widely used across European enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors including telecommunications, finance, manufacturing, and public services. Systems that utilize Linux kernel versions containing this vulnerability and rely on OPP for power management—such as servers, embedded devices, and IoT infrastructure—may be at risk of kernel instability or denial of service through crafted local attacks. While remote exploitation is unlikely without prior access, the vulnerability could be exploited by insiders or through compromised local accounts to cause system crashes or potentially escalate privileges, undermining system integrity and availability. This could disrupt critical services and lead to operational downtime or data loss. Additionally, embedded Linux devices used in industrial control systems or telecommunications equipment in Europe could be targeted, affecting operational technology environments. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability's presence in core kernel code necessitates prompt attention to avoid future exploitation as attackers develop techniques to leverage this flaw.

European organizations should prioritize patching affected Linux kernel versions as soon as vendor updates become available. Since the vulnerability involves kernel-level code, applying official kernel patches or upgrading to a fixed kernel release is the most effective mitigation. Organizations should: 1) Inventory Linux systems to identify those running vulnerable kernel versions, especially embedded and IoT devices using OPP for frequency scaling. 2) Test and deploy kernel updates from trusted Linux distributions or vendors promptly. 3) Restrict local user privileges to minimize the risk of local exploitation, employing strict access controls and user account management. 4) Monitor system logs and kernel messages for unusual behavior or crashes related to power management functions. 5) For embedded and industrial devices, coordinate with device manufacturers to obtain patched firmware or kernel updates. 6) Employ kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and SELinux/AppArmor policies to reduce attack surface. 7) Implement network segmentation to isolate critical Linux systems and limit lateral movement in case of compromise. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific kernel subsystem and usage scenarios affected by this vulnerability.