CVE-2026-98090

What it is

In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: btrfs: restore active device pointers after failed sprout btrfs_init_new_device() switches latest_dev and possibly s_bdev from the seed device to the new sprout device before creating the first writable chunks. If chunk creation or the subsequent sprout setup fails, the error path releases the new device without switching those pointers back. btrfs_show_devname() can then dereference the freed latest_dev and crash. Restore the active device pointers to the latest seed device before removing and releasing the failed sprout device.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited locally on the machine with a low-privilege account. High risk of service disruption.

Exploit odds

0.1% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2026-09-25 11:17 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-10-23 19:00 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.1% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 5.5 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2026-09-25 11:17 UTC

Last modified

2026-10-23 19:00 UTC

Exploit probability

0.1% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-416 · Use after free

Record status

Analyzed

Affected

• Linux Kernel < 5.15.222
• Linux Kernel < 6.1.189
• Linux Kernel < 6.6.158
• Linux Kernel < 6.12.111
• Linux Kernel < 6.18.53
• Linux Kernel < 7.2.7
• Linux Kernel 7.3

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 5.5

Attack vector

Local

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

Low

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-2026-98090.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2026-98090. 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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