CVE-2025-23146 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the multi-function device (mfd) driver for the ene-kb3930 hardware component. The issue arises from a potential NULL pointer dereference in the kb3930_probe() function, where the off_gpios pointer could be NULL but was not properly checked before use. This type of vulnerability can lead to kernel crashes (denial of service) or potentially enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code if exploited under certain conditions. The vulnerability is similar to a previously fixed issue in the backlight driver (hx8357), indicating a pattern of missing NULL pointer checks in kernel drivers. The flaw was detected through static analysis, and no known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The affected versions correspond to specific Linux kernel commits prior to the fix. Since the vulnerability is in the kernel driver layer, it affects all Linux distributions that include the vulnerable kernel versions and use the ene-kb3930 device driver. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but may require local access or specific hardware presence to trigger. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no patch links are provided in the data, but the fix involves adding a NULL check in the probe function to prevent dereferencing a NULL pointer.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends largely on the deployment of Linux systems using the affected kernel versions and the presence of the ene-kb3930 hardware or related devices. If exploited, the vulnerability could cause kernel panics leading to denial of service, disrupting critical services and operations. In environments where uptime and availability are crucial—such as financial institutions, healthcare providers, and industrial control systems—this could result in operational downtime and potential financial losses. Although no known exploits exist currently, the vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers with local access to escalate privileges or cause system instability. Given the Linux kernel's widespread use in servers, embedded devices, and IoT systems across Europe, organizations relying on vulnerable kernels without the fix may be at risk. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk in multi-user or shared environments. However, the requirement for specific hardware presence limits the scope somewhat. Overall, the vulnerability poses a moderate risk to confidentiality and integrity but a higher risk to availability.

European organizations should first identify if their Linux systems run kernel versions containing the vulnerable ene-kb3930 driver. This can be done by checking kernel version and driver module presence. Immediate mitigation involves applying the official kernel patches once available or upgrading to a fixed kernel version that includes the NULL pointer check in kb3930_probe(). Until patches are applied, organizations should restrict local access to affected systems to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of exploitation. For embedded or IoT devices using this driver, vendors should be contacted for firmware updates. Additionally, monitoring kernel logs for crashes or anomalies related to the kb3930 driver can help detect attempted exploitation. Implementing strict access controls and using security modules like SELinux or AppArmor can reduce attack surface. Finally, organizations should maintain an inventory of hardware components to assess exposure accurately and prioritize patching accordingly.