In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability allows for an out-of-bounds array access due to improper validation of USB Type-C connector numbers. This issue arises from the function ucsi_notify_common(), which processes connector numbers extracted from the CCI via UCSI_CCI_CONNECTOR(). This connector number is a 7-bit field ranging from 0 to 127.
The connector number is used as an index into an array in the function ucsi_connector_change(). However, this array is only allocated for the number of connectors reported by the device, which typically ranges from 2 to 4 entries. If a malicious or malfunctioning device reports an out-of-range connector number, it may cause an out-of-bounds access.
To mitigate this issue, a bounds check has been added in the ucsi_notify_common(), ensuring that bogus connector numbers are rejected before they propagate further through the system.
Risk to organizations includes potential system instability and exploitation through crafted USB devices. Organizations should prioritize regular updates to ensure these vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.
The vulnerability was disclosed on May 1, 2026, and is currently classified as awaiting analysis. Immediate action may be required as more details become available.
Organizations should monitor official channels for updates, as this vulnerability could have significant implications depending on its exploitation potential.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability allows for an out-of-bounds array access due to improper validation of USB Type-C connector numbers in the Linux kernel. The official CVE description states: "The connector number extracted from CCI via UCSI_CCI_CONNECTOR() is a 7-bit field (0-127) that is used to index into the connector array in ucsi_connector_change(). However, the array is only allocated for the number of connectors reported by the device (typically 2-4 entries). A malicious or malfunctioning device could report an out-of-range connector number in the CCI, causing an out-of-bounds array access in ucsi_connector_change()."
The vulnerability is still awaiting analysis, and no CVSS score is currently available.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the failure to validate the connector number received from hardware, which can lead to unintended memory access. The attack vector is local, as it requires physical access to the device at risk.
The complexity of this attack is low, given that it only requires a malicious or malfunctioning device to connect to a vulnerable system. No user interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability.
The potential impacts include confidentiality and integrity issues depending on what memory is accessed and could lead to system crashes or instability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment risk associated with this issue includes exposure to crafted USB devices that could exploit this vulnerability. Given that the exploitation potential is currently low, the urgency for defenders may be moderate, but organizations should remain vigilant.
Organizations should evaluate the potential blast radius, particularly in environments where USB devices are frequently connected. The risk to organizations includes potential system instability and exploitation through crafted USB devices.
Organizations should address this issue in their priority patch cycle as more information becomes available.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
Affected versions are not specified, but all versions prior to vendor patch may be vulnerable.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability as details emerge. Regular updates and monitoring should be part of routine maintenance.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring logs for unusual connector access attempts and behavioral anomalies can help in early detection of potential attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability lies in the growing reliance on USB interfaces in modern systems. As devices become more interconnected, the potential for exploitation increases. Security teams should assess their USB security posture and consider implementing enhanced monitoring for USB devices.
Organizations may benefit from understanding the patterns of vulnerabilities in USB protocols and ensuring that robust validation mechanisms are in place.
For further insights, organizations can explore our penetration testing services, which can help identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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