CVE-2024-41016 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 07/29/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
ocfs2: strict bound check before memcmp in ocfs2_xattr_find_entry()
xattr in ocfs2 maybe 'non-indexed', which saved with additional space requested. It's better to check if the memory is out of bound before memcmp, although this possibility mainly comes from crafted poisonous images.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/18/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-41016 affects the Linux kernel's ocfs2 filesystem implementation, specifically within the ocfs2_xattr_find_entry() function. This issue represents a potential buffer overread condition that could be exploited through malformed filesystem images. The ocfs2 filesystem, which stands for Oracle Cluster File System 2, is designed for clustered environments where multiple nodes access the same storage simultaneously. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking during attribute processing operations, particularly when handling non-indexed extended attributes that require additional memory allocation beyond standard requirements.
The technical flaw manifests in the absence of proper memory boundary validation before executing memcmp operations within the ocfs2_xattr_find_entry() function. When extended attributes are stored as non-indexed entries, they consume additional space beyond typical attribute storage requirements. This special storage format creates scenarios where memory access operations could potentially traverse beyond allocated buffer boundaries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it primarily arises from crafted malicious filesystem images rather than normal operational conditions, suggesting an attack vector involving specially constructed filesystem metadata that could be introduced through various means including compromised storage devices or malicious file transfers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, potentially enabling privilege escalation or denial of service conditions within systems utilizing ocfs2 filesystems. Attackers who can influence filesystem image creation or manipulation processes could leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernels that include the ocfs2 filesystem implementation, particularly those deployed in clustered environments where ocfs2 is actively used for shared storage management. Organizations maintaining critical infrastructure using clustered storage solutions should consider this vulnerability as a potential threat vector requiring immediate attention.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-41016 should focus on applying the latest kernel patches that implement proper bounds checking before memcmp operations in the affected function. System administrators should prioritize kernel updates across all production environments utilizing ocfs2 filesystems, particularly in clustered configurations where the attack surface is expanded. Additionally, implementing filesystem integrity monitoring and access control measures can help detect and prevent unauthorized modifications to ocfs2 filesystem images. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array index bounds, and may map to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation through kernel exploits or denial of service attacks targeting filesystem implementations. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems that process untrusted ocfs2 filesystem images, particularly in environments where file transfers or storage import operations occur from external sources.