CVE-2026-53076 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

Linux kernel developers, administrators, and users of Linux-based systems should be aware of this vulnerability. The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker with local access to the system, potentially leading to information disclosure.

Technical summary

The vulnerability is caused by an incorrect assumption in pcpu_init_value about the alignment of value_size in BPF maps. Specifically, when a CGROUP_STORAGE map with a non-8-byte aligned value_size is created and updated into a pcpu map with the same value_size, an out-of-bounds read can occur. This is because the verifier checks the size claimed by the source, not the size rounded up to 8 bytes by the kernel. The vulnerability can be mitigated by ensuring that value_sizes are properly aligned to 8 bytes or by applying the provided patches.

Defensive priority

High priority should be given to patching or mitigating this vulnerability, as it can be exploited by an attacker with local access to the system. Linux kernel developers and administrators should review the provided patches and apply them as soon as possible.

Recommended defensive actions

• Apply the provided patches to the Linux kernel to fix the vulnerability.
• Review and update Linux kernel configurations to ensure value_sizes are properly aligned to 8 bytes.
• Monitor systems for potential exploitation attempts.
• Consider implementing additional security controls, such as restricting access to sensitive data and limiting local access to the system.
• Keep Linux kernel and related software up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Evidence notes

The vulnerability was reported and patched by the Linux kernel community. The CVE record and NVD details provide additional information about the vulnerability. The source item URL provides access to the NVD JSON data for this CVE.

Official resources