CVE-2026-23272
Published: March 20, 2026· Updated: Mar 20, 2026
Official Description
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
netfilter: nf_tables: unconditionally bump set->nelems before insertion
In case that the set is full, a new element gets published then removed
without waiting for the RCU grace period, while RCU reader can be
walking over it already.
To address this issue, add the element transaction even if set is full,
but toggle the set_full flag to report -ENFILE so the abort path safely
unwinds the set to its previous state.
As for element updates, decrement set->nelems to restore it.
A simpler fix is to call synchronize_rcu() in the error path.
However, with a large batch adding elements to already maxed-out set,
this could cause noticeable slowdown of such batches.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2026-23272 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (3)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2026-23272 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts