CVE-2025-37967 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's USB Type-C subsystem, specifically within the UCSI (USB Type-C Connector System Software Interface) driver handling DisplayPort alternate mode connections. The issue arises from a deadlock condition caused by improper mutex locking behavior. In the vulnerable code, the function ucsi_displayport_remove_partner holds a connector mutex (con->mutex) while waiting for a deferred work item (dp_altmode_work) to complete. Concurrently, dp_altmode_work attempts to acquire the same mutex, resulting in a circular wait and thus a deadlock. This deadlock can cause the affected system's USB Type-C DisplayPort functionality to hang or become unresponsive. The patch introduces two new functions, ucsi_con_mutex_lock and ucsi_con_mutex_unlock, which ensure that the connector mutex is only locked if a connection is established and the partner pointer is valid, thereby preventing the deadlock scenario. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel identified by specific commit hashes, indicating it is present in recent kernel releases prior to the patch. No known exploits are reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability is primarily a stability and availability issue affecting USB Type-C DisplayPort alternate mode operations on Linux systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-37967 centers on system availability and operational stability, particularly for devices relying on Linux-based systems with USB Type-C ports used for DisplayPort video output. This includes enterprise desktops, laptops, and embedded systems in sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure that utilize Linux extensively. A deadlock in the kernel can cause system hangs or require reboots, potentially disrupting business operations, video conferencing, or digital signage systems. While this vulnerability does not directly compromise confidentiality or integrity, the availability impact could be significant in environments where continuous operation is critical. Organizations using Linux distributions with kernels affected by this vulnerability may experience degraded user experience or operational interruptions until patched. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability should be addressed proactively to maintain system reliability.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to the patched versions that include the fix for CVE-2025-37967. Since the vulnerability is related to kernel-level USB Type-C DisplayPort handling, kernel upgrades distributed by Linux vendors or distributions (such as Debian, Ubuntu, Red Hat, SUSE) should be applied promptly. For environments where immediate kernel upgrades are challenging, temporary mitigation could include disabling USB Type-C DisplayPort alternate mode functionality if feasible, or avoiding use of affected USB Type-C ports for DisplayPort connections until patched. System administrators should monitor kernel update advisories from their Linux distribution maintainers and test patches in controlled environments before deployment. Additionally, organizations should audit systems with USB Type-C ports to identify those running vulnerable kernel versions and prioritize patching accordingly. Implementing robust system monitoring to detect hangs or deadlocks related to USB Type-C operations can help identify affected systems proactively.