Memory Leak in Linux Kernel i915 Driver

Executive Summary

This is a memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel's drm/i915 driver. It occurs in the query_perf_config_list() function where a memory allocation failure during krealloc() is not properly handled. Instead of freeing the original oa_config_ids memory before returning, it leaks, potentially causing resource exhaustion over time.

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Detection Guidance

This vulnerability is specific to the Linux kernel's drm/i915 driver and involves a memory leak in query_perf_config_list(). Detection requires checking for memory leaks in the kernel module. Use commands like 'dmesg | grep -i leak' or 'journalctl -k | grep -i leak' to identify kernel-related memory issues.

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Impact Analysis

The impact is primarily on system stability and performance. A memory leak can gradually consume available memory, leading to slowdowns, crashes, or denial of service conditions on affected systems running the vulnerable Linux kernel component.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability does not directly affect compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar standards as it is a memory leak in the Linux kernel's graphics driver subsystem. Memory leaks typically do not violate data protection or privacy regulations unless they lead to unauthorized data exposure or system instability.

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Mitigation Strategies

Update the Linux kernel to the latest patched version that includes the fix for CVE-2026-97899. If immediate patching is not possible, consider disabling the affected drm/i915 driver module if not required.

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