CVE-2026-98047: bpf: Check ancestor frames for rbtree callbacks

Severity: unknown
Exploited in the wild: not listed in CISA KEV
EPSS: 0.2% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days
Public exploit or detection template: none known
Published: 2026-09-25 · updated 2026-10-21

Description

In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: bpf: Check ancestor frames for rbtree callbacks bpf_rbtree_add() invokes its comparator while the caller holds the root lock. The native insertion code retains raw parent and link pointers across the callback, so the verifier prohibits unlocking, consuming tree nodes, or changing RCU state from that callback. in_rbtree_lock_required_cb() only checks the innermost verifier frame. Static subprogram calls are permitted while holding a spin lock, and such a call pushes a frame without in_callback_fn set. Consequently, all callback restrictions disappear in the nested frame. The subprogram can unlock the tree, remove and drop the node being compared, then relock. Native insertion resumes with the stale parent pointer and links freed memory into the tree. Walk all active frames for the rbtree callback instead. Benign static subprograms remain permitted, while callback restrictions follow execution into nested frames.

Affected products

Linux kernel: 6.9 — fixed in 7.3

How to fix

Upgrade to a fixed version: Linux kernel 7.3. Check the vendor advisory for mitigations.

References

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