CVE-2026-53179 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 06/25/2026
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
staging: rtl8723bs: fix buffer over-read in rtw_update_protection
rtw_update_protection() is called with a pointer offset into the ies buffer but the full ie_length is passed, causing a potential buffer over-read.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2026
The vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's staging driver for rtl8723bs represents a critical buffer over-read condition that could potentially lead to system instability or information disclosure. This flaw exists within the rtw_update_protection function which processes wireless network information elements during device operation. The issue stems from improper parameter handling where the function receives a pointer that has been offset into the ies buffer but incorrectly uses the full ie_length value for processing operations rather than accounting for the actual remaining buffer space from the offset position.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, though in this case it manifests as an over-read scenario. The function's improper handling of buffer boundaries creates a situation where memory locations beyond the intended buffer can be accessed and read, potentially exposing sensitive kernel memory contents to user-space applications or malicious actors. This type of flaw commonly occurs when developers fail to properly validate buffer offsets and lengths during wireless protocol processing operations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability could enable attackers to extract confidential information from kernel memory spaces, potentially including cryptographic keys, network credentials, or other sensitive data. The rtl8723bs driver is used for Realtek wireless USB adapters, making this a potential attack vector for wireless network exploitation. When exploited, such buffer over-read conditions may also cause system crashes or denial of service scenarios, particularly during active wireless connection management operations. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernels that include the staging drivers for rtl8723bs functionality.
The mitigation strategy involves correcting the parameter handling within the rtw_update_protection function to properly account for the buffer offset when calculating the effective length available for processing. This requires adjusting the function to use the correct buffer boundaries rather than passing the full ie_length value. System administrators should ensure their kernels are updated with patches addressing this specific vulnerability, particularly in environments where wireless network security is paramount. The fix should follow standard secure coding practices as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's defensive techniques for preventing memory corruption vulnerabilities.
This type of buffer over-read vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and boundary checking in kernel space code. The staging driver subsystem often contains less rigorously tested code compared to mainline kernel components, making these areas particularly susceptible to such memory safety issues. Regular security audits and static analysis of kernel drivers can help identify similar patterns that may exist in other wireless or networking subsystems within the Linux kernel ecosystem.