CVE-2026-64372 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

Linux kernel developers and maintainers, Linux distribution maintainers, and users of Linux-based systems should assess their exposure and apply patches or mitigations as necessary.

Why it matters

A use-after-free and double free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's cpufreq: pcc: _OSC evaluation requires immediate attention from Linux kernel developers, maintainers, and users to prevent potential local privilege escalation and system instability.

• Local privilege escalation is possible, potentially allowing attackers to gain elevated access.
• System crashes or instability may occur due to the use-after-free and double free vulnerabilities.
• Defenders should verify the Linux kernel version and apply patches to prevent exploitation.
• Remediation priority is high due to the potential for local privilege escalation.

Technical summary

The vulnerability is caused by the improper handling of memory during the two-phase _OSC negotiation in the cpufreq: pcc: _OSC evaluation. This leads to a use-after-free and double free vulnerability, potentially allowing local attackers to escalate privileges. The vulnerability can cause system instability and potentially allow attackers to gain elevated access. The CVE record and source item provide details on the vulnerability, including its description and affected versions. Defenders should verify the Linux kernel version and apply patches to prevent exploitation.

Defensive priority

High

Recommended defensive actions

• Review and apply the patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
• Ensure that the Linux kernel is updated to a version that includes the fix.
• Monitor system logs for potential exploitation attempts.
• 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.
• Confirm whether affected product deployments exist in managed environments and assign an owner for follow-up.

Evidence notes

The CVE record and source item provide details on the vulnerability, including its description and affected versions. However, specific exploitation details and victim information are not provided. Defenders should verify the Linux kernel version and apply patches to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability has been resolved in the Linux kernel, and patches are available. Users should review and apply the patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.

Sources and references

Methodology and review provenance

AI-assisted synthesis based on stored public vulnerability evidence. System validation, approval state, and publication status do not by themselves establish human review of this revision. PatchSiren helps prioritize defensive review and does not prove exposure or remediation on any system.