CVE-2026-89572 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

Linux kernel maintainers, developers, and users who rely on the cpufreq Apple SOC driver should assess their exposure and apply the patches provided. Additionally, operators and security teams responsible for Linux kernel deployments should review the vulnerability and take necessary actions to prevent potential resource leaks. Vulnerability management and platform security teams should also review the issue and ensure proper mitigation.

Why it matters

A vulnerability in the Linux kernel's cpufreq Apple SOC driver has been addressed, and users should verify their exposure and apply patches.

• Potential resource leaks due to improper OPP table cleanup.
• Verification of OPP table cleanup on failure paths is required.
• Monitoring system resources for potential issues related to the cpufreq driver is recommended.

Technical summary

The Linux kernel's cpufreq Apple SOC driver did not properly clean up OPP tables from firmware on some failure paths. The issue has been resolved by using the correct cpumask OPP helper and pairing it with the matching remove helper on failure paths and in the exit function. This change prevents potential resource leaks and ensures proper cleanup of OPP tables. Affected product context includes Linux kernel deployments using the cpufreq Apple SOC driver. The defensive impact is significant, as it prevents potential resource leaks and ensures system stability.

Defensive priority

Medium

Recommended defensive actions

• Review and apply the patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
• Verify the OPP table cleanup on failure paths in the cpufreq Apple SOC driver.
• Monitor system resources for potential leaks or issues related to the cpufreq driver.
• Confirm whether affected product deployments exist in managed environments and assign an owner for follow-up.
• 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 and NVD entry provide details on the vulnerability. However, the scope of affected systems and versions is not explicitly stated, requiring verification from official sources. Affected systems likely include Linux kernel deployments using the cpufreq Apple SOC driver. Defenders should verify system configurations, review official advisories, and assess exposure.

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.