CVE-2026-53250: xsk: cache csum_start/csum_offset to fix TOCTOU in xsk_skb_metadata()
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
xsk: cache csumstart/csumoffset to fix TOCTOU in xskskbmetadata()
The TX metadata area resides in the UMEM buffer which is memory-mapped and concurrently writable by userspace. In xskskbmetadata(), csumstart and csumoffset are read from shared memory for bounds validation, then read again for skb assignment. A malicious userspace application can race to overwrite these values between the two reads, bypassing the bounds check and causing out-of-bounds memory access during checksum computation in the transmit path.
Fix this by reading csumstart and csumoffset into local variables once, then using the local copies for both validation and assignment.
Note that other metadata fields (flags, launchtime) and the cached csum fields may be mutually inconsistent due to concurrent userspace writes, but this is benign: the only security-critical invariant is that each field's validated value is the same one used, which local caching guarantees.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Configuration
In xsk_skb_metadata(), prevent TOCTOU by reading csum_start and csum_offset from the userspace-mapped UMEM shared metadata into local variables once, then use the same validated local copies for both checksum bounds validation and for skb assignment in the transmit path.
Linux kernel (xsk_skb_metadata) csum_start/csum_offset caching in local variables = Read csum_start and csum_offset once into local copies and use those local copies for both bounds validation and subsequent assignment/use (do not re-read from shared UMEM for validation vs assignment).
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-53250?
CVE-2026-53250 has a risk score of 47, indicating a moderate level of severity.
How do I fix CVE-2026-53250?
To fix CVE-2026-53250, ensure that your Linux kernel is updated to the latest version that includes the patch for this vulnerability.
What systems are affected by CVE-2026-53250?
CVE-2026-53250 affects the Linux kernel and potentially any system running an affected version.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-53250?
CVE-2026-53250 is a Time of Check to Time of Use (TOCTOU) vulnerability impacting memory-mapped UMEM buffers in the Linux kernel.
When was CVE-2026-53250 published?
CVE-2026-53250 was published on June 25, 2026.