CVE-2026-45951

CVE-2026-45951 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: bpf: Fix a potential use-after-free of BTF object Refcounting in the check_pseudo_btf_id() function is incorrect: the __check_pseudo_btf_id() function might get called with a zero refcounted btf. Fix this, and patch related code accordingly. v3: rephrase a comment (AI) v2: fix a refcount leak introduced in v1 (AI)

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2026-45951?
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: bpf: Fix a potential use-after-free of BTF object Refcounting in the check_pseudo_btf_id() function is incorrect: the __check_pseudo_btf_id() function might get called with a zero refcounted btf. Fix this, and patch related code accordingly. v3: rephrase a comment (AI) v2: fix a refcount leak introduced in v1 (AI)
How severe is CVE-2026-45951?
CVE-2026-45951 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-2026-45951 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-2026-45951?
CVE-2026-45951 affects Linux Linux Kernel. See the affected-products list for the exact vulnerable versions.
How do I fix CVE-2026-45951?
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-2026-45951 have an EU (EUVD) identifier?
Yes. CVE-2026-45951 is tracked in the ENISA EU Vulnerability Database (EUVD) as EUVD-2026-32235.
When was CVE-2026-45951 published?
CVE-2026-45951 was published on 2026-05-27 and last updated on 2026-06-17.

References

Affected products (1)

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