CVE-2026-45966
Description
A flaw was found in the AppArmor security module within the Linux kernel. This vulnerability occurs when the system processes file descriptors, which are references to open files or other I/O resources, using a specific inter-process communication mechanism called SCM_RIGHTS. A missing check for null pointers during this process can allow a local attacker to cause a kernel crash, resulting in a Denial of Service (DoS) for the affected system.
Understanding the Weakness (CWE)
Availability
Technical Impact: DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart
NULL pointer dereferences usually result in the failure of the process unless exception handling (on some platforms) is available and implemented. Even when exception handling is being used, it can still be very difficult to return the software to a safe state of operation.
Integrity,Confidentiality
Technical Impact: Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands; Read Memory; Modify Memory
In rare circumstances, when NULL is equivalent to the 0x0 memory address and privileged code can access it, then writing or reading memory is possible, which may lead to code execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
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