CVE-2026-68177
Received Received - Intake

Tracing Use-After-Free in Linux Kernel

Publication date: 2026-08-10

Last updated on: 2026-08-10

Assigner: kernel.org

Description
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: tracing: Delay module ref count for "enable_event" trigger Triggers are now delayed from freeing, but can still be triggered until after the RCU grace period has ended. The freeing of the enable_event data is put into the private_data_free() callback, but the put of the module refcount is done immediately. It is possible that if a module is removed that has an event that would enable (or disable) it is still active, it can read the data of the module after it is removed causing a use-after-free bug. Move the trace_event_put_ref() that releases the module into the delayed callback so that the module can not be removed until any reference to its events are finished.

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Meta Information

Published
2026-08-10
Last Modified
2026-08-10
Generated
2026-08-10
AI Q&A
2026-08-10
EPSS Evaluated
N/A
NVD
CVE-2026-68177
EUVD
EUVD-2026-55278

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
linux linux_kernel *

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Exploitability

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CWE ID Description
CWE-UNKNOWN

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Executive Summary

This is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's tracing subsystem. It occurs when a module with active event triggers is removed before those triggers finish execution. The module's data is freed while references to it still exist, leading to potential memory corruption or crashes.

Detection Guidance

This vulnerability is specific to the Linux kernel's tracing subsystem and may not have direct detection commands. Monitor kernel logs for traces related to module removal or use-after-free errors. Check for kernel crashes or unexpected behavior after module unloading.

Impact Analysis

This could cause system instability, crashes, or privilege escalation if exploited. Users might experience kernel panics, data corruption, or unexpected behavior in systems relying on kernel tracing features.

Mitigation Strategies

Update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version where this vulnerability is patched. Avoid removing kernel modules while tracing is active. Review and restrict access to tracing features in production environments.

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