CVE-2026-23137
Unknown Unknown - Not Provided
Memory Leak in Linux Kernel unittest_data_add() Function

Publication date: 2026-02-14

Last updated on: 2026-03-17

Assigner: kernel.org

Description
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: of: unittest: Fix memory leak in unittest_data_add() In unittest_data_add(), if of_resolve_phandles() fails, the allocated unittest_data is not freed, leading to a memory leak. Fix this by using scope-based cleanup helper __free(kfree) for automatic resource cleanup. This ensures unittest_data is automatically freed when it goes out of scope in error paths. For the success path, use retain_and_null_ptr() to transfer ownership of the memory to the device tree and prevent double freeing.
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Meta Information
Published
2026-02-14
Last Modified
2026-03-17
Generated
2026-06-16
AI Q&A
2026-02-14
EPSS Evaluated
2026-06-15
NVD
CVE-2026-23137
EUVD
EUVD-2026-5900
Affected Vendors & Products
Showing 5 associated CPEs
Vendor Product Version / Range
linux linux_kernel 6.19
linux linux_kernel 6.19
linux linux_kernel 6.19
linux linux_kernel 6.19
linux linux_kernel From 3.18 (inc) to 6.18.6 (exc)
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
CWE
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KEV
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CWE ID Description
CWE-401 The product does not sufficiently track and release allocated memory after it has been used, making the memory unavailable for reallocation and reuse.
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Executive Summary

This vulnerability exists in the Linux kernel's unittest component, specifically in the function unittest_data_add(). If the function of_resolve_phandles() fails, the allocated memory for unittest_data is not freed, causing a memory leak.

The issue is fixed by using a scope-based cleanup helper (__free(kfree)) to automatically free the allocated memory when it goes out of scope during error handling. Additionally, for successful operations, retain_and_null_ptr() is used to transfer memory ownership properly and avoid double freeing.

Impact Analysis

This vulnerability can lead to a memory leak in the Linux kernel when unittest_data_add() fails to resolve phandles. Over time, repeated failures could cause increased memory usage, potentially degrading system performance or stability.

Compliance Impact

I don't know

Detection Guidance

I don't know

Mitigation Strategies

The vulnerability is fixed by updating the Linux kernel to a version where unittest_data_add() properly frees allocated memory on error paths using scope-based cleanup helpers.

Therefore, the immediate step to mitigate this vulnerability is to update your Linux kernel to the patched version that includes this fix.

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