Linux Kernel Net Scheduler Packet Classifier API Use-After-Free Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

August 13th, 2026

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Linux Kernel. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.

The specific flaw exists within the tcf_qevent_handle function. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of the kernel.

Additional Details

Linux has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://github.com/torvalds/linux/commit/a8a02897f2b479127db261de05cbf0c28b98d159

Disclosure Timeline

  • 2026-06-19 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2026-08-13 - Coordinated public release of advisory
  • 2026-08-13 - Advisory Updated

Credit

Bryan Mbeumo, elden

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