CVE-2024-40972

ext4: do not create EA inode under buffer lock

Description

In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: ext4: do not create EA inode under buffer lock ext4_xattr_set_entry() creates new EA inodes while holding buffer lock on the external xattr block. This is problematic as it nests all the allocation locking (which acquires locks on other buffers) under the buffer lock. This can even deadlock when the filesystem is corrupted and e.g. quota file is setup to contain xattr block as data block. Move the allocation of EA inode out of ext4_xattr_set_entry() into the callers.

Category

5.5
CVSS
Severity: Medium
CVSS 3.1 •
EPSS 0.04%
Affected: Linux Linux
Affected: Linux Linux
Published at:
Updated at:

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2024-40972?
CVE-2024-40972 has been scored as a medium severity vulnerability.
How to fix CVE-2024-40972?
To fix CVE-2024-40972, make sure you are using an up-to-date version of the affected component(s) by checking the vendor release notes. As for now, there are no other specific guidelines available.
Is CVE-2024-40972 being actively exploited in the wild?
As for now, there are no information to confirm that CVE-2024-40972 is being actively exploited. According to its EPSS score, there is a ~0% probability that this vulnerability will be exploited by malicious actors in the next 30 days.
What software or system is affected by CVE-2024-40972?
CVE-2024-40972 affects Linux Linux, Linux Linux.
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