CVE-2024-50246 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
fs/ntfs3: Add rough attr alloc_size check
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-50246 resides within the Linux kernel's ntfs3 file system driver, specifically addressing an insufficient attribute allocation size validation mechanism. This flaw manifests in the file system's handling of NTFS (New Technology File System) volumes, which is commonly used in Windows environments and supported by Linux for cross-platform compatibility. The ntfs3 driver implementation processes file attributes and their associated allocation sizes during file system operations, creating potential attack vectors when these checks are inadequate or absent.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper validation for attribute allocation sizes within the ntfs3 file system implementation. When processing file system metadata, particularly attribute lists and their corresponding allocation parameters, the kernel fails to perform adequate bounds checking or size verification. This oversight creates opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate file system structures through crafted attribute data that exceeds normal allocation boundaries. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, meaning that any successful exploitation could potentially compromise system integrity and stability, as the ntfs3 driver runs with elevated privileges during file system operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-50246 extends beyond simple data corruption or access control bypasses. Attackers could potentially leverage this weakness to cause system crashes, denial of service conditions, or in more severe scenarios, execute arbitrary code within the kernel space. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for systems that mount NTFS volumes from external devices or network shares, as these environments provide multiple attack surfaces where maliciously crafted file system metadata could be introduced. Systems running Linux kernels with the ntfs3 driver enabled and actively mounting NTFS volumes represent high-risk targets, especially in enterprise environments where file system interoperability is critical.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to kernel versions that include the patched ntfs3 driver implementation. The fix implemented by the Linux kernel development team adds a "rough attr alloc_size check" which serves as an additional validation layer for attribute allocation sizes during file system processing. This remediation aligns with the principle of defense in depth and follows common security practices outlined in the CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) catalog, specifically addressing weaknesses related to insufficient input validation and improper handling of file system metadata. Organizations should also implement monitoring for unusual file system access patterns and ensure that NTFS volumes are properly sanitized before mounting, particularly when dealing with untrusted sources. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques, as exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges or manipulate system behavior through kernel-level file system manipulation.