CVE-2025-68356: gfs2: Prevent recursive memory reclaim
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
gfs2: Prevent recursive memory reclaim
Function newinode() returns a new inode with inode->imapping->gfpmask set to GFPHIGHUSERMOVABLE. This value includes the GFPFS flag, so allocations in that address space can recurse into filesystem memory reclaim. We don't want that to happen because it can consume a significant amount of stack memory.
Worse than that is that it can also deadlock: for example, in several places, gfs2unstuffdinode() is called inside filesystem transactions. This calls filemapgrabfolio(), which can allocate a new folio, which can trigger memory reclaim. If memory reclaim recurses into the filesystem and starts another transaction, a deadlock will ensue.
To fix these kinds of problems, prevent memory reclaim from recursing into filesystem code by making sure that the gfpmask of inode address spaces doesn't include GFPFS.
The "meta" and resource group address spaces were already using GFPNOFS as their gfpmask (which doesn't include GFPFS). The default value of GFPHIGHUSERMOVABLE is less restrictive than GFPNOFS, though. To avoid being overly limiting, use the default value and only knock off the GFPFS flag. I'm not sure if this will actually make a difference, but it also shouldn't hurt.
This patch is loosely based on commit ad22c7a043c2 ("xfs: prevent stack overflows from page cache allocation").
Fixes xfstest generic/273.
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2025-68356?
The severity of CVE-2025-68356 is categorized as high due to its potential exploitation affecting system stability.
How do I fix CVE-2025-68356?
To fix CVE-2025-68356, update to the latest stable version of the Linux kernel that includes the necessary patches.
What systems are affected by CVE-2025-68356?
CVE-2025-68356 affects the Linux kernel available in various distributions that utilize this kernel version.
What are the risks of not addressing CVE-2025-68356?
Failing to address CVE-2025-68356 can lead to potential memory reclamation issues that may compromise system integrity and performance.
Is CVE-2025-68356 a remote exploit?
CVE-2025-68356 is not classified as a remote exploit; it requires local access to the system for potential exploitation.