PatchTheCVECVE-2026-98543: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: bpf: fs/xattr: don't assume the inode is
CVE-2026-98543 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.3) affecting affected software. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: bpf: fs/xattr: don't assume the inode is locked in path_unlink/path_rmdir bpf_lsm_has_d_inode_locked() makes the verifier rewrite bpf_[set|remove]_dentry_xattr() to the _locked variants, which assume that the caller already holds the inode's i_rwsem. The path_unlink and path_rmdir hooks are listed, but security_path_unlink() and security_path_rmdir() run before vfs_unlink()/vf
Why this priority
- High severity
- On your watchlist
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.3 (High) |
| Attack vector | Local |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | Low |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.2% (top 91%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Published | 2026-10-18 |
| Last modified | 2026-10-24 |
Last updated 2026-10-24 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Exact fixes by distribution
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2026-98543?
No fixed release is listed yet. Watch the vendor advisory and apply any mitigation shown on this page.
Is CVE-2026-98543 being exploited?
CVE-2026-98543 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2026-98543 affect?
CVE-2026-98543 affects affected software. Severity is high (CVSS 7.3). In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: bpf: fs/xattr: don't assume the inode is locked in path_unlink/path_rmdir bpf_lsm_has_d_inode_locked() makes the verifier rewrite bpf_[set|remove]_dentry_xattr() to the _
How urgent is CVE-2026-98543?
Priority 33/100. High severity; On your watchlist