CVE-2026-64236 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

Linux kernel developers and maintainers, users of Linux distributions, and administrators responsible for updating and patching Linux systems should be aware of this vulnerability. They should review and apply patches to prevent division by zero in the i2c Davinci driver. Additionally, they should verify device tree configurations to ensure 'clock-frequency' properties are properly defined. This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 5.5 and is considered MEDIUM severity, indicating a need for prompt attention and mitigation to prevent potential exploitation. Security teams and vulnerability management teams should also be informed to ensure proper prioritization and remediation of this issue within their environments. Compensating controls, such as monitoring and asset inventory, may be necessary for exposed systems while remediation is scheduled and verified. Proper planning and execution of vendor-supported updates or mitigations are crucial to prevent potential operational impact. Reviewing compensating controls for exposed systems and tracking exceptions are essential steps in managing this vulnerability effectively. The CVSS score and severity level emphasize the importance of addressing this vulnerability in a timely manner to minimize potential risks. Linux distributions and users should prioritize patching and mitigation efforts based on their specific environments and risk assessments. Effective communication and coordination among stakeholders are vital to ensure comprehensive remediation and minimize potential disruptions. By taking proactive measures, organizations can reduce the likelihood of exploitation and maintain the security and stability of their Linux-based systems. The involvement of Linux kernel developers, maintainers, and administrators is crucial in addressing this vulnerability and preventing potential attacks. They should work together to ensure the timely application of patches and mitigations, as well as the verification of device tree configurations to prevent similar issues in the future. The CVSS score of 5.5 and MEDIUM severity level highlight the need for prompt action and cooperation among stakeholders to address this critical and

Technical summary

The Linux kernel's i2c Davinci driver is vulnerable to a division by zero error when the 'clock-frequency' property is missing from the device tree. The driver uses a default frequency defined in kHz instead of Hz, causing integer truncation and leading to a kernel panic. The issue is resolved by redefining the default frequency in Hz to match the expected device tree property unit, allowing the existing division logic to work correctly for both cases. This fix prevents the division by zero error and ensures the stability of the i2c Davinci driver.

Defensive priority

Apply patches to prevent division by zero in i2c Davinci driver

Recommended defensive actions

• Apply patches to update the DAVINCI_I2C_DEFAULT_BUS_FREQ definition to Hz
• Verify and apply Linux kernel updates to ensure the i2c Davinci driver is patched
• Review device tree configurations to ensure 'clock-frequency' properties are properly defined
• Confirm whether affected product deployments exist in managed environments and assign an owner for follow-up
• Review the supplied official advisory or CVE record to validate affected scope, severity, and vendor guidance
• Plan vendor-supported updates or mitigations through normal change control where exposure is confirmed
• Check relevant monitoring, detection, and logs for exposed assets that need extra review

Evidence notes

The issue arises from incorrect unit handling of the 'clock-frequency' property in the device tree. When this property is missing, the driver uses a fallback frequency defined in kHz (100) instead of Hz, causing integer truncation and a division by zero error later in the probe sequence. The fix involves redefining the default frequency in Hz to match the expected unit.

Official resources