Critical SUSE Linux security update: Patch CVE-2024-10041 in PAM to resolve a privilege escalation vulnerability. This update also fixes a CPU performance regression from the initial patch. Learn which SUSE Linux Enterprise and openSUSE Leap versions are affected and get the exact commands to secure your systems now.
CVE: CVE-2024-10041
Severity: Moderate (CVSS:4.0 5.7 / CVSS:3.1 4.7)
SUSE has released a critical security update for the Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM) library, addressing a significant vulnerability tracked as CVE-2024-10041.
This patch is not just a routine security fix; it also resolves a CPU performance degradation issue introduced by the initial mitigation, making it an essential update for system stability and efficiency.
For system administrators and DevOps engineers managing enterprise Linux environments, timely application of this patch is paramount to maintaining both security integrity and optimal system performance.
This update serves as a crucial reminder of the delicate balance between security and performance in enterprise IT operations.
A previous patch, while closing a security gap, inadvertently impacted system resources—a common challenge in cybersecurity. This subsequent release exemplifies SUSE's commitment to providing robust, enterprise-grade solutions that address the full spectrum of operational concerns.
Understanding the CVE-2024-10041 Vulnerability and Its Impact
The core issue, CVE-2024-20241, is a local privilege escalation vulnerability within the PAM framework. PAM is a fundamental component of most Linux distributions, handling authentication for a wide range of applications and services. But what does this vulnerability mean in practical terms?
In essence, a local attacker could potentially exploit a flaw in the way PAM handles certain tasks to gain elevated privileges on a compromised system. According to the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) and SUSE's own ratings, it has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.7, categorized as medium severity.
The attack is complex (Attack Complexity: High), requires local access (Attack Vector: Local), and results in a high impact on confidentiality by granting access to sensitive information, though it does not affect integrity or availability.
Affected SUSE Products and Platforms:
This security update impacts a wide array of SUSE's enterprise and open-source products, including:
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP6 & SP7 (and its SAP variants)
SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 15 SP6 & SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Real Time 15 SP6 & SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Micro 5.1 through 5.5 (including Rancher variants)
openSUSE Leap 15.6
Basesystem and Development Tools Modules for 15-SP6/7
Beyond Security: Fixing the CPU Performance Regression
The most critical aspect of this specific update (SUSE-SU-2025:02970-1) is its dual nature. It doesn't just address the CVE; it optimizes the previous fix that was causing unintended CPU performance issues (as documented in bug report bsc#1232234).
This scenario is a classic case study in enterprise systems management. Initial security patches can sometimes introduce operational overhead.
SUSE's responsive development cycle ensures that such regressions are identified and rectified promptly, minimizing downtime and preserving the performance that business-critical applications rely on. This commitment to quality and stability is a key reason why enterprises trust SUSE for their most important workloads.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply the SUSE PAM Security Update
Applying this patch is a straightforward process using SUSE's standard package management tools. The recommended method is to use zypper patch, which intelligently handles all necessary dependencies and ensures a clean update process.
Patch Instructions:
General Method: Use your preferred SUSE installation method, such as YaST online_update or the command:
sudo zypper patch
Product-Specific Commands: You can also install the specific patch package for your product. For example:
For openSUSE Leap 15.6:
sudo zypper in -t patch openSUSE-SLE-15.6-2025-2970=1
For SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP6:
sudo zypper in -t patch SUSE-SLE-Module-Basesystem-15-SP6-2025-2970=1
For SUSE Linux Enterprise Micro 5.3:
sudo zypper in -t patch SUSE-SLE-Micro-5.3-2025-2970=1
After applying the update, it is considered best practice to restart any services that rely on PAM or, if possible, perform a system reboot to ensure the updated libraries are loaded into memory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How critical is this PAM update for my SUSE servers?
A: This is a moderately critical update. While the vulnerability itself requires specific conditions to exploit, the patch also resolves a performance-related bug. Applying it enhances security and ensures system performance is not negatively impacted, making it highly recommended for all affected systems.
Q2: What is the difference between CVSS 3.1 and 4.0 scores?
A: CVSS 4.0 is a newer framework that offers more granular scoring metrics. The score difference (4.7 vs. 5.7) reflects the updated methodology but consistently indicates a medium-severity issue. Both scores emphasize the local nature and high confidentiality impact of the vulnerability.
Q3: Where can I find the official sources and package lists for this update?
A: All official references are provided by SUSE:
CVE Details: https://www.suse.com/security/cve/CVE-2024-10041.html
Bug Reports: bsc#1232234, bsc#1246221
The full package list for each architecture is detailed in the original security announcement.
Q4: Does this affect Ubuntu or RHEL systems?
A: This specific announcement and patch are for SUSE Linux products. However, the underlying PAM library is universal. Administrators on other distributions should consult their respective security advisories (e.g., Ubuntu Security Notices or Red Hat Security Advisories) for information on similar vulnerabilities.
Conclusion: Prioritize This Hybrid Update
The SUSE-SU-2025:02970-1 update is a prime example of a holistic maintenance release. It successfully mitigates a security vulnerability while rectifying a performance regression—addressing two critical aspects of system administration with a single action.
In today's landscape, where security and efficiency are non-negotiable, staying current with such patches is a fundamental pillar of responsible IT governance.
Proactively managing your system's health includes subscribing to official SUSE security announcements and integrating patch management into your regular DevOps workflows. Secure your systems and ensure they run efficiently by applying this update today.
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