CVE-2025-68798 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

System administrators and security teams managing Linux kernel-based systems, especially those using AMD machines, should be aware of this vulnerability. They should verify if their systems are affected and apply the necessary patches to prevent potential GPFs.

Technical summary

The vulnerability exists in the Linux kernel's perf/x86/amd implementation. A race condition can lead to a NULL value in cpuc->events[idx], causing a GPF when attempting to enable an event. The fix involves adding a NULL check in amd_pmu_enable_all() before enabling events. This issue appears to be AMD-specific and was reported via syzkaller. The problem arises from a subtle race condition with NMI->throttle->x86_pmu_stop(), which can cause cpuc->events[idx] to become NULL. To address this, a check for a NULL event was added in amd_pmu_enable_all() before enabling the event. System administrators and security teams should verify if their systems are affected and apply necessary patches.

Defensive priority

Apply patches to address the GPF vulnerability in perf/x86/amd. Verify system configurations and perform inventory checks to identify potentially affected systems.

Recommended defensive actions

• Apply the official patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the GPF vulnerability in perf/x86/amd.
• Perform inventory checks to identify systems that may be affected by this vulnerability.
• Verify system configurations to ensure they are not exposed to unnecessary risks.
• Monitor system logs for any signs of GPFs related to perf/x86/amd.
• Review compensating controls for exposed systems while remediation is scheduled and verified.
• Check relevant monitoring, detection, and logs for exposed assets that need extra review.
• Track exceptions, retest remediated assets, and close the item only after evidence is documented.

Evidence notes

The CVE record was published on 2026-01-13T16:16:01.770Z and last modified on 2026-07-14T13:18:00.523Z. The NVD entry is currently Deferred. Multiple source references are provided, including kernel.org and Siemens CERT Portal links.

Official resources