CVE-2026-98415 Linux CVE debrief

Who should care

Defenders responsible for Linux kernel-based systems, particularly those utilizing the affected versions, should assess exposure and prioritize patching. This includes operators of Linux-based infrastructure, security teams, and vulnerability management teams. They should review system configurations, ensure that the Linux kernel is up-to-date, and monitor system logs for potential exploitation attempts.

Why it matters

A use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's soc: samsung: exynos-pmu can lead to system instability, potential elevation of privileges, and increased risk of denial-of-service attacks. Defenders should prioritize patching and verifying Linux kernel versions.

• Potential system crashes or instability due to use-after-free conditions.
• Possible elevation of privileges or unauthorized access.
• Increased risk of denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.
• Need for verification of Linux kernel versions and patch application.

Technical summary

The setup_cpuhp_and_cpuidle() function in the Linux kernel's soc: samsung: exynos-pmu improperly handles the reference count of the interrupt generator node. This can lead to a use-after-free condition when the intr_gen_node pointer is passed into of_syscon_register_regmap(). The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of the interrupt generator node's reference count. Specifically, the setup_cpuhp_and_cpuidle() function fetches the resource address via of_parse_phandle() and immediately decrements its reference count with of_node_put().

Defensive priority

Defenders should prioritize verifying and applying patches for this vulnerability, particularly for systems utilizing the affected Linux kernel versions.

Recommended defensive actions

• Verify and apply patches for this vulnerability, particularly for systems utilizing the affected Linux kernel versions.
• Review system configurations and ensure that the Linux kernel is up-to-date.
• Monitor system logs for potential exploitation attempts.
• Perform vulnerability scanning to identify potentially affected systems.
• Develop and implement compensating controls for exposed systems.
• Track patch application and verify remediation success.
• technicalSummary

Evidence notes

The CVE record and source item provide details on the vulnerability, including its description and affected versions. However, the CVSS score and severity are not provided. The setup_cpuhp_and_cpuidle() function in the Linux kernel's soc: samsung: exynos-pmu improperly handles the reference count of the interrupt generator node. This can lead to a use-after-free condition when the intr_gen_node pointer is passed into of_syscon_register_regmap(). Defenders should verify Linux kernel versions and apply patches. The vulnerability arises

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.