CVE-2025-21919: sched/fair: Fix potential memory corruption in child_cfs_rq_on_list
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
sched/fair: Fix potential memory corruption in childcfsrqonlist
childcfsrqonlist attempts to convert a 'prev' pointer to a cfsrq. This 'prev' pointer can originate from struct rq's leafcfsrqlist, making the conversion invalid and potentially leading to memory corruption. Depending on the relative positions of leafcfsrqlist and the task group (tg) pointer within the struct, this can cause a memory fault or access garbage data.
The issue arises in listaddleafcfsrq, where both cfsrq->leafcfsrqlist and rq->leafcfsrqlist are added to the same leaf list. Also, rq->tmpalonebranch can be set to rq->leafcfsrqlist.
This adds a check if (prev == &rq->leafcfsrqlist) after the main conditional in childcfsrqonlist. This ensures that the containerof operation will convert a correct cfsrq struct.
This check is sufficient because only cfsrqs on the same CPU are added to the list, so verifying the 'prev' pointer against the current rq's list head is enough.
Fixes a potential memory corruption issue that due to current struct layout might not be manifesting as a crash but could lead to unpredictable behavior when the layout changes.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 5.15.180.1-1 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 6.6.85.1-2
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2025-21919?
CVE-2025-21919 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability due to the potential for memory corruption.
How do I fix CVE-2025-21919?
To fix CVE-2025-21919, update your Linux kernel to the latest version where this vulnerability has been patched.
What impact does CVE-2025-21919 have on system security?
CVE-2025-21919 may allow an attacker to exploit memory corruption, leading to system instability or unauthorized access.
Which versions of the Linux kernel are affected by CVE-2025-21919?
CVE-2025-21919 affects various versions of the Linux kernel prior to the patch release.
Is CVE-2025-21919 related to scheduling issues in the Linux kernel?
Yes, CVE-2025-21919 is related to potential flaws in the scheduling mechanism of the Linux kernel.