CVE-2016-7042

What it is

The proc_keys_show function in security/keys/proc.c in the Linux kernel through 4.8.2, when the GNU Compiler Collection (gcc) stack protector is enabled, uses an incorrect buffer size for certain timeout data, which allows local users to cause a denial of service (stack memory corruption and panic) by reading the /proc/keys file.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited locally on the machine without logging in. High risk of service disruption.

Exploit odds

0.4% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

No patch or advisory is linked yet. Look at mitigations or restrict exposure.

Timeline

1. 2016-10-16 21:59 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 00:52 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.4% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 6.2 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: none linked yet, which raises it.

Details

Published

2016-10-16 21:59 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 00:52 UTC

Exploit probability

0.4% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-119 · Buffer errors

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Linux Kernel ≤ 4.8.2

Attack profile CVSS 3.0 · 6.2

Attack vector

Local

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

None

Integrity

None

Availability

High

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2016-7042.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2016-7042. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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