CVE-2024-52560 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 02/27/2025
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
fs/ntfs3: Mark inode as bad as soon as error detected in mi_enum_attr()
Extended the `mi_enum_attr()` function interface with an additional parameter, `struct ntfs_inode *ni`, to allow marking the inode as bad as soon as an error is detected.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-52560 resides within the Linux kernel's ntfs3 filesystem driver, specifically addressing a critical flaw in how inode errors are handled during attribute enumeration. This issue affects the filesystem's ability to properly manage corrupted or malformed metadata structures, potentially leading to system instability and data integrity concerns. The ntfs3 driver implements the ntfs3 filesystem support in the Linux kernel, providing read and write capabilities for ntfs3 formatted volumes while maintaining compatibility with the ntfs3 filesystem format.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the `mi_enum_attr()` function which lacks proper error handling mechanisms to immediately mark corrupted inodes as bad upon detection of filesystem inconsistencies. This function is responsible for enumerating filesystem attributes within ntfs3 volumes and operates as part of the filesystem's internal metadata management system. The flaw creates a scenario where filesystem corruption can persist undetected, allowing potentially malicious or accidental data corruption to propagate through the system without immediate corrective action. When errors are detected during attribute enumeration, the system should immediately flag the affected inode as bad to prevent further access and potential data corruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple filesystem corruption detection, as it creates opportunities for attackers to exploit the delayed error handling mechanism to manipulate filesystem state or escalate privileges. The lack of immediate inode marking means that corrupted inodes may continue to be accessed, potentially leading to denial of service conditions or data loss. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-248, which addresses "Uncaught Exception" scenarios in software systems, where error conditions are not properly handled and result in unexpected behavior. The vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1490, which covers "Inhibit System Recovery" through filesystem corruption and manipulation.
The resolution for this vulnerability involves extending the `mi_enum_attr()` function interface with an additional parameter `struct ntfs_inode *ni` that enables immediate marking of inodes as bad upon error detection. This approach follows the principle of fail-fast error handling, where system components immediately recognize and isolate corrupted state rather than allowing it to persist. The fix implements a proactive approach to filesystem integrity management, ensuring that when inconsistencies are detected during attribute enumeration, the system takes immediate corrective action by marking the affected inode as bad. This prevents further access to potentially corrupted data and allows the filesystem to maintain consistent state.
Security implications of this vulnerability extend to system reliability and data protection, as filesystem corruption can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or complete system crashes. The fix addresses the core issue by implementing immediate error response mechanisms that align with best practices in filesystem design and security. The solution demonstrates proper error handling principles and follows established patterns for filesystem corruption management within the Linux kernel ecosystem. Organizations should prioritize applying this patch to systems running ntfs3 filesystems to maintain system stability and prevent potential exploitation of the delayed error handling mechanism. The vulnerability represents a critical security concern that requires immediate attention due to its potential to compromise system integrity and data availability.