CVE-2026-53042
Published: June 24, 2026· Updated: Jun 24, 2026
Official Description
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
fwctl: Fix class init ordering to avoid NULL pointer dereference on device removal
CXL is linked before fwctl in drivers/Makefile. Both use `module_init, so
`cxl_pci_driver_init()` runs first. When `cxl_pci_probe()` calls
`fwctl_register()` and then `device_add()`, fwctl_class is not yet
registered because fwctl_init() hasn't run, causing `class_to_subsys()` to
return NULL and skip knode_class initialization.
On device removal, `class_to_subsys()` returns non-NULL, and
`device_del()` calls `klist_del()` on the uninitialized knode, triggering
a NULL pointer dereference.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2026-53042 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-2026-53042 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts