CVE-2026-52999
Published: June 24, 2026· Updated: Jun 28, 2026
Official Description
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
netfilter: nfnetlink_osf: fix out-of-bounds read on option matching
In nf_osf_match(), the nf_osf_hdr_ctx structure is initialized once
and passed by reference to nf_osf_match_one() for each fingerprint
checked. During TCP option parsing, nf_osf_match_one() advances the
shared ctx->optp pointer.
If a fingerprint perfectly matches, the function returns early without
restoring ctx->optp to its initial state. If the user has configured
NF_OSF_LOGLEVEL_ALL, the loop continues to the next fingerprint.
However, because ctx->optp was not restored, the next call to
nf_osf_match_one() starts parsing from the end of the options buffer.
This causes subsequent matches to read garbage data and fail
immediately, making it impossible to log more than one match or logging
incorrect matches.
Instead of using a shared ctx->optp pointer, pass the context as a
constant pointer and use a local pointer (optp) for TCP option
traversal. This makes nf_osf_match_one() strictly stateless from the
caller's perspective, ensuring every fingerprint check starts at the
correct option offset.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2026-52999 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.1.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (8)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2026-52999 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts