In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: usb: typec: tcpm: recover after failure to start the frs ams Reset the port if… (CVE-2026-98761)
Description
A vulnerability in the Linux kernel's USB Type-C TCPM driver was resolved by improving recovery after failure to start the FAST_ROLE_SWAP (FRS) Alternate Mode State (AMS). The issue involved the port failing to reset properly when the FRS AMS failed to start, causing VBUS power to remain sourced incorrectly. This could occur when some cables incorrectly signal an FRS during disconnection, potentially leaving the port in an invalid state with VBUS still on.
AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
The vulnerability in the Linux kernel USB Type-C TCPM driver involved improper handling when the FAST_ROLE_SWAP AMS failed to start. Specifically, if the TCPM failed to start the FRS AMS due to an open CC line (e.g., cable disconnect), the port state was set to INVALID_STATE without resetting the port, leaving VBUS power sourced erroneously. The fix introduces port reset and error recovery procedures to properly disable VBUS and reset the port state, preventing unintended power sourcing after such failures.
Potential Impact
If unpatched, the vulnerability could cause the USB Type-C port to continue sourcing VBUS power incorrectly after a failed FAST_ROLE_SWAP AMS start, potentially leading to power management issues or hardware damage in some scenarios. However, no active exploits or widespread attacks are known. The impact is limited to USB Type-C ports on affected Linux kernel versions handling FRS AMS.
Mitigation Recommendations
A fix has been implemented in the Linux kernel to reset the port and initiate error recovery when the TCPM fails to start the FAST_ROLE_SWAP AMS. Users should update to the fixed Linux kernel version containing this patch. No additional mitigation is required beyond applying the official kernel update.
Technical Details
- Gcve Source
- db.gcve.eu
- Osv Id
- GHSA-fcv9-h4wq-59j8
- Osv Schema Version
- 1.4.0
- Aliases
- ["CVE-2026-98761"]
Threat ID: 6ad520ab2cdf04f6569939bb
Added to database: 10/18/2026, 19:40:27 UTC
Last enriched: 10/18/2026, 22:22:35 UTC
Last updated: 10/18/2026, 22:22:35 UTC
Views: 2
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