In the Linux kernel, a high-severity vulnerability has been identified within the Bluetooth subsystem, specifically affecting the SCO (Synchronous Connection-Oriented) socket handling. This vulnerability allows attackers to exploit race conditions in the sco_sock_connect() function, potentially leading to use-after-free scenarios. This issue is particularly concerning due to its classification as a high-severity vulnerability with a CVSS score of 7.8.
The vulnerability arises from the function's failure to hold a socket lock while checking the socket state and type. This oversight allows two concurrent connect() system calls on the same socket to bypass the checks and enter sco_connect(), leading to critical resource mismanagement and potential system instability.
Risk to organizations includes exploitation of this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to system resources, which can cause significant operational disruptions. Given the potential impact, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
As of now, no public exploit has been confirmed, but the nature of the vulnerability suggests that it could be exploited under specific conditions. Therefore, organizations must remain vigilant and implement necessary mitigations.
The vulnerability was published on May 1, 2026, and has since been resolved in subsequent updates. It is advisable for organizations running affected versions of the Linux kernel to evaluate their environments and apply the relevant patches.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows for the exploitation of race conditions in the Bluetooth SCO socket handling, specifically in the sco_sock_connect() function. The CVSS score of 7.8 categorizes it as high severity, indicating significant potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
The vulnerability was disclosed on May 1, 2026, and the underlying issue stems from improper handling of socket state checks, which can lead to use-after-free conditions under concurrent access scenarios.
Technical Analysis
The core issue lies in the fact that the sco_sock_connect() function does not properly synchronize access to socket resources. When two threads attempt to connect to the same socket simultaneously, both can enter the function and pass the initial state checks without proper locking.
Once inside the function, the first thread can proceed to establish a connection, while the second thread may inadvertently revive a previously closed socket. This can trigger a double free, leading to potential memory corruption and system instability.
To mitigate this, developers should implement proper locking mechanisms in the sco_sock_connect() function to ensure that state checks are serialized, preventing race conditions.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations utilizing the Linux kernel's Bluetooth features face a serious risk due to this vulnerability. The potential for exploitation to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources necessitates immediate attention.
Given the high CVSS score of 7.8, the urgency for remediation is elevated. The vulnerability poses a significant threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, particularly in environments where Bluetooth functionality is critical.
Organizations should assess the affected systems and prioritize patching to mitigate the risk. The potential blast radius of this vulnerability could affect multiple systems if not addressed promptly.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of the Linux kernel prior to the latest patches are potentially affected. Organizations should ensure their systems are updated to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To address this vulnerability, organizations should immediately apply patches released by the Linux kernel maintainers. For systems that cannot be patched immediately, they should consider implementing network controls to limit access to Bluetooth functionalities.
Additionally, organizations can benefit from performing regular security assessments, including penetration testing to uncover potential vulnerabilities and ensure their systems are hardened against exploitation.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual socket activity and concurrent connection attempts on Bluetooth interfaces. Additionally, behavioral anomalies associated with Bluetooth connections should be investigated.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The existence of this vulnerability highlights ongoing concerns regarding the security of Bluetooth implementations in widely used software. Organizations must remain proactive in their security posture by regularly updating their systems and adopting best practices for secure coding.
For more insights on improving your organization's security, consider exploring our penetration testing methodology and resources on vulnerability management.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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