CVE-2024-50152
A critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel’s SMB client can cause a double free, potentially leading to a crash or arbitrary code execution. The flaw occurs when freeing memory twice during SMB2 extended attribute handling. It has been fixed in recent kernel releases.
An official fix is available, so this entry is kept for 30 days and then removed automatically.
Who is affected
Linux kernel, particularly versions before the patch that fixed the double free in smb2_set_ea() (e.g., kernel 6.12 and earlier). Typical users are system administrators running Linux servers or desktops.
Real-world impact
An attacker could trigger the double free by sending crafted SMB2 requests, causing the kernel to crash or potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
Why this severity
The CVSS score of 9.8 reflects the vulnerability’s high impact (confidentiality, integrity, availability) and the fact that it can be exploited remotely without authentication or user interaction.
What to do about it
- 01Update the Linux kernel to a patched version that includes the fix for the double free in smb2_set_ea() (e.g., kernel 6.12 or later).
- 02Reboot the system to load the new kernel.
NVD-referenced vendor advisory
Timeline
- Nov 7, 2024 · Nov 7, 2024PublishedDisclosed and added to the National Vulnerability Database.
- Aug 4, 2026 · 2d agoAdvisory updatedThe NVD record was last revised.
- Aug 4, 2026 · 1d agoOfficial fix availableA vendor patch or mitigation now exists — see the remediation steps above.