ZDI-26-696: Linux Kernel NTFS3 Journal Heap

Zerodayinitiative • September 14, 2026

This vulnerability allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Linux Kernel. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.

The specific flaw exists within the processing of NTFS3 journal log records. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a write past the end of an allocated buffer. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the kernel.

Linux has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:

2026-05-07 - Vulnerability reported to vendor

2026-09-14 - Coordinated public release of advisory

2026-09-14 - Advisory Updated

Meshaal (@unrealmesh)

The full story

This article is one source in a clustered incident — the cluster page carries the summary, timeline and every other outlet covering it.

Multiple Vulnerabilities in Linux Kernel NTFS3 Disclosed Four vulnerabilities affecting the Linux Kernel's NTFS3 file system have been disclosed, allowing local attackers to disclose sensitive information or execute arbitrary code. The vulnerabilities require low-privileged code execution for exploitation. The flaws include issues with directory index entries, directory headers, extended attributes, and NTFS3 journal log records, all stemming from improper validation of user-supplied data. The vulnerabilities can lead to reading past allocated arrays or writing past allocated buffers, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges. Linux has issued updates to address these vulnerabilities. The advisories were publicly released on September 14, 2026, following a report to the vendor on June 10, 2026. Security professionals are urged to apply the patches promptly. 4 sources 46

Extracted Entities

ZDI-26-696: Linux Kernel NTFS3 Journal Heap

The full story

Extracted Entities

Attack Types (1)

CWE Weaknesses (1)

Platforms (1)

Vulnerabilities (1)