CVE-2026-97936 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

Linux kernel developers, Linux distribution maintainers, and users of Linux-based systems who use tracing and histogram features. These individuals should verify if their Linux kernel version is affected by this vulnerability and review kernel logs for signs of memory corruption or crashes related to the tracing histogram feature.

Why it matters

A memory corruption vulnerability was found in the Linux kernel's tracing histogram stacktrace modifier. This vulnerability requires verification of affected versions and deployment contexts.

• Potential memory corruption and crashes
• Verification of affected versions and deployment contexts required
• Review of kernel logs for signs of memory corruption or crashes related to the tracing histogram feature

Technical summary

The vulnerability occurs when the '.stacktrace' modifier is used with a field that does not hold a stacktrace, leading to a potential memory corruption. The Linux kernel's tracing histogram stacktrace modifier does not properly check if the field name resolved to a field that holds a stacktrace. This can lead to memory corruption and crashes. The fix involves ensuring that the '.stacktrace' modifier is used with a field that holds a stacktrace. Affected product context and defensive impact are crucial in understanding and mitigating this vulnerability.

Defensive priority

High

Recommended defensive actions

• Verify if the Linux kernel version used in your deployment is affected by this vulnerability
• Check if the tracing histogram stacktrace modifier is enabled in your kernel configuration
• Review kernel logs for signs of memory corruption or crashes related to the tracing histogram feature
• Plan vendor-supported updates or mitigations through normal change control where exposure is confirmed
• 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 vulnerability was resolved in the Linux kernel. The CVE record and NVD entry provide details on the vulnerability. The fix involves ensuring that the '.stacktrace' modifier is used with a field that holds a stacktrace. Affected versions and deployment contexts need to be verified. Kernel logs should be reviewed for signs of memory corruption or crashes related to the tracing histogram feature.

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.