Memory Leak in Linux Kernel WiFi Driver

Executive Summary

This is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel affecting the mt76 Wi-Fi driver, specifically the mt7996 chipset. The issue occurs in the mt7996_mac_sta_deinit_link() function where a WCID (Wireless Client ID) pointer is not properly cleared when removing a station link. This could lead to stale or incorrect WCID references in memory.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Detection Guidance

This vulnerability is specific to the Linux kernel's mt76 driver for MediaTek MT7996 WiFi chips. Detection requires checking kernel logs for related errors or examining the driver code for the affected function mt7996_mac_sta_deinit_link. No standard commands exist for direct detection as it involves driver-level issues.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Impact Analysis

This vulnerability may cause Wi-Fi connectivity issues or unexpected behavior in affected devices using the mt7996 chipset. It could lead to crashes, connection drops, or incorrect handling of wireless clients. Users might experience unstable network performance or require device reboots.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Compliance Impact

The provided CVE data does not specify any direct impact on compliance with standards like GDPR or HIPAA. The vulnerability appears to be a memory management issue in the Linux kernel's WiFi driver, which may affect system stability or security but lacks details on regulatory implications.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Mitigation Strategies

Update your Linux kernel to a patched version that includes the fix for this vulnerability. Monitor kernel updates from your distribution and apply them promptly. If using a custom kernel, ensure the patch for CVE-2026-63866 is applied.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0