CVE-2024-22099 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2024
NULL Pointer Dereference vulnerability in Linux Linux kernel kernel on Linux, x86, ARM (net, bluetooth modules) allows Overflow Buffers. This vulnerability is associated with program files /net/bluetooth/rfcomm/core.C.
This issue affects Linux kernel: v2.6.12-rc2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2025
The CVE-2024-22099 vulnerability represents a critical null pointer dereference flaw within the Linux kernel's Bluetooth subsystem, specifically within the rfcomm/core.c module located in the net/bluetooth directory. This vulnerability manifests as a buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through improper handling of null pointer references during Bluetooth communication processing. The issue affects Linux kernel versions starting from v2.6.12-rc2 and impacts systems utilizing x86 and ARM architectures. The vulnerability resides in the core Bluetooth RFCOMM protocol implementation where the kernel fails to properly validate pointer references before dereferencing them, creating a potential attack surface for malicious actors to exploit. The rfcomm/core.c file serves as a fundamental component in Bluetooth communication protocols, managing the RFCOMM (Radio Frequency Communication) layer that enables serial port emulation over Bluetooth connections. This particular module handles the establishment and management of Bluetooth serial connections, making it a critical pathway for potential exploitation. The vulnerability's classification as a NULL pointer dereference aligns with CWE-476, which specifically addresses null pointer dereference conditions that can lead to system crashes or privilege escalation. When a null pointer is encountered during normal operation, the kernel's handling mechanism fails to properly validate the pointer state before attempting to access memory locations, resulting in a system crash or potential code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple attack vectors within the Bluetooth communication framework, particularly affecting systems that rely heavily on wireless connectivity and Bluetooth device management. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious Bluetooth packets or establishing specific connection sequences that trigger the null pointer dereference condition. The exploitation process typically involves initiating Bluetooth communication with a specially crafted payload that forces the kernel to attempt dereferencing a null pointer within the rfcomm/core.c module. This condition can result in immediate system crashes, denial of service attacks, or potentially more severe outcomes depending on the system configuration and kernel version. The vulnerability's presence in both x86 and ARM architectures indicates a widespread impact across different hardware platforms, making it particularly concerning for embedded systems, mobile devices, and IoT deployments that utilize Bluetooth connectivity. The buffer overflow aspect of this vulnerability further compounds the risk as it can potentially allow for memory corruption attacks that may lead to privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution within the kernel space. The fact that this vulnerability affects the core Bluetooth subsystem means that any system utilizing Bluetooth services, including smartphones, laptops, servers, and embedded devices, could be susceptible to exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-22099 require immediate kernel updates and patches from the Linux kernel development team, as the vulnerability directly impacts the kernel's core Bluetooth functionality. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems to ensure that the null pointer dereference condition is resolved through proper pointer validation mechanisms. The recommended approach includes applying the latest kernel updates that contain fixes for the rfcomm/core.c module, specifically addressing the improper null pointer handling in Bluetooth RFCOMM protocol implementations. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and Bluetooth service restrictions to limit exposure, particularly in environments where Bluetooth connectivity is not essential for operations. The mitigation process should include monitoring for suspicious Bluetooth activity and implementing proper access controls to prevent unauthorized Bluetooth device pairing or connection attempts. Security teams should consider disabling Bluetooth functionality entirely on systems where it is not required, as this represents a fundamental reduction of the attack surface. Additionally, implementing kernel module hardening techniques and using security frameworks such as kernel lockdown modes can help prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's alignment with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1566.001 (Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment) suggests that attackers may leverage Bluetooth-based attack vectors to deliver malicious payloads or establish persistent access within networks. Organizations should also consider implementing Bluetooth device whitelisting policies and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their wireless infrastructure.