CVE-2019-15794
kernel: Overlayfs in the Linux kernel and shiftfs not restoring original value on error leading to a refcount underflow
Severity
ModerateRed Hat Product Security
CVSS 3.1
Review impact separately from score.
Published · November 12, 2019
Updated · October 2, 2026
Description
A flaw was found in the Linux kernel. In Overlayfs, vma->vm_file was replaced in the mmap handlers and, on errors, the original value is not restored. A local attacker with special user privilege (or root) can cause a kernel internal information leak. The highest threat from this vulnerability is to data confidentiality and integrity as well as system availability.
CVSS score applicability
The CVSS score(s) listed for this vulnerability do not reflect the associated product's status, and are included for informational purposes to better understand the severity of this vulnerability.
Mitigation
Mitigation for this issue is either not available or the currently available options don't meet the Red Hat Product Security criteria comprising ease of use and deployment, applicability to widespread installation base or stability.
CVSS / CWE
CVSS 3.1 · 6.7CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CWE-672 · Operation on a Resource after Expiration or Release