CVE-2025-68762: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: net: netpoll: initialize work queue before error checks Prevent a kernel warning...

Description

In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: net: netpoll: initialize work queue before error checks Prevent a kernel warning when netconsole setup fails on devices with IFF_DISABLE_NETPOLL flag. The warning (at kernel/workqueue.c:4242 in __flush_work) occurs because the cleanup path tries to cancel an uninitialized work queue. When __netpoll_setup() encounters a device with IFF_DISABLE_NETPOLL, it fails early and calls skb_pool_flush() for cleanup. This function calls cancel_work_sync(&np->refill_wq), but refill_wq hasn't been initialized yet, triggering the warning. Move INIT_WORK() to the beginning of __netpoll_setup(), ensuring the work queue is properly initialized before any potential failure points. This allows the cleanup path to safely cancel the work queue regardless of where the setup fails.

Metrics

EPSS Probability

0.15%

5.0th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

References

Timeline

Published: Jan 5, 2026
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Deferred

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2025-68762?

In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: net: netpoll: initialize work queue before error checks Prevent a kernel warning when netconsole setup fails on devices with IFF_DISABLE_NETPOLL flag. The warning (at kernel/workqueue.c:4242 in __flush_work) occurs because the cleanup path tries to cancel an uninitialized work queue. When __netpoll_setup() encounters a device with IFF_DISABLE_NETPOLL, it fails early and calls skb_pool_flush() for cleanup. This function calls cancel_work_sync(&np->refill_wq), but refill_wq hasn't been initialized yet, triggering the warning. Move INIT_WORK() to the beginning of __netpoll_setup(), ensuring the work queue is properly initialized before any potential failure points. This allows the cleanup path to safely cancel the work queue regardless of where the setup fails.

How severe is CVE-2025-68762?

Severity scoring for CVE-2025-68762 is pending analysis. The EPSS model estimates a 0.15% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2025-68762?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.