CVE-2026-43458

CVE-2026-43458 is a high-severity vulnerability in Linux Linux Kernel with a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.8. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-416.

Key facts

Description

In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: serial: caif: hold tty->link reference in ldisc_open and ser_release A reproducer triggers a KASAN slab-use-after-free in pty_write_room() when caif_serial's TX path calls tty_write_room(). The faulting access is on tty->link->port. Hold an extra kref on tty->link for the lifetime of the caif_serial line discipline: get it in ldisc_open() and drop it in ser_release(), and also drop it on the ldisc_open() error path. With this change applied, the reproducer no longer triggers the UAF in my testing.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2026-43458?
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: serial: caif: hold tty->link reference in ldisc_open and ser_release A reproducer triggers a KASAN slab-use-after-free in pty_write_room() when caif_serial's TX path calls tty_write_room(). The faulting access is on tty->link->port. Hold an extra kref on tty->link for the lifetime of the caif_serial line discipline: get it in ldisc_open() and drop it in ser_release(), and also drop it on the ldisc_open() error path. With this change applied, the reproducer no longer triggers the UAF in my testing.
How severe is CVE-2026-43458?
CVE-2026-43458 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.8, rated high severity. It is exploitable over local access with low attack complexity, requires low privileges and no user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is high, integrity high, and availability high.
Is CVE-2026-43458 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 0% (2nd percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2026-43458?
CVE-2026-43458 primarily affects Linux Linux Kernel. In total, 4 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2026-43458?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
Does CVE-2026-43458 have an EU (EUVD) identifier?
Yes. CVE-2026-43458 is tracked in the ENISA EU Vulnerability Database (EUVD) as EUVD-2026-28764.
When was CVE-2026-43458 published?
CVE-2026-43458 was published on 2026-05-08 and last updated on 2026-06-17.

References

Affected products (4)

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