Snapcraft Build Error: Frustration Over Seccomp Changes in Kernel 6.15

June 2, 2025

Snapcraft Build Fails on Kernel 6.15 Due to Seccomp Profile Changes

As the Linux kernel evolves, so do the security features that protect applications running on it. One such feature is seccomp (Secure Computing Mode), which restricts the system calls that applications can make. With the release of kernel 6.15, changes to the seccomp profile have led to build failures in snapcraft, a tool for packaging applications in the Snap format. Understanding these changes and how to adapt your snapcraft builds is crucial for developers aiming to maintain compatibility and security in their applications.

Understanding Seccomp and Its Importance

seccomp is a Linux kernel feature that allows an application to restrict the system calls it can make, thereby reducing the attack surface and enhancing security. With each kernel update, the seccomp profiles may change, which can lead to unexpected behavior in applications that rely on specific system calls. This is particularly relevant for snapcraft users, as many applications packaged as Snaps may encounter build failures due to these changes.

Configuration Steps to Resolve Snapcraft Build Failures

To address the build failures caused by seccomp profile changes in kernel 6.15, follow these actionable steps:

Step 1: Update Snapcraft

Ensure you are using the latest version of snapcraft, as updates may include fixes for compatibility with kernel 6.15.

sudo snap refresh snapcraft

Step 2: Review Seccomp Changes

Check the official Linux kernel changelog for version 6.15 to identify specific changes to the seccomp profiles. This will help you understand which system calls are now restricted.

Step 3: Modify Your Snapcraft.yaml File

Adjust your snapcraft.yaml file to accommodate the new seccomp restrictions. You may need to add or modify the plugs and slots to ensure your application has the necessary permissions.

plugs:
  network:
    interface: network
  network-bind:
    interface: network-bind

Step 4: Test Your Build

After making the necessary changes, attempt to build your Snap again:

snapcraft

Step 5: Debugging Build Failures

If the build still fails, use the following command to get detailed logs:

snapcraft --debug

Analyze the logs to identify which system calls are being blocked and adjust your seccomp profile accordingly.

Practical Examples

Consider a scenario where a Snap application relies on the ptrace system call for debugging. With kernel 6.15, this call may be restricted. To resolve this, you can modify your snapcraft configuration to include the necessary permissions:

plugs:
  ptrace:
    interface: ptrace

This adjustment allows your application to use the ptrace system call without encountering build failures.

Best Practices for Snapcraft Builds

Regularly update snapcraft and your development environment to stay compatible with the latest kernel changes.
Utilize the snapcraft forums and community resources for troubleshooting and advice on seccomp-related issues.
Test your Snap applications on multiple kernel versions to ensure compatibility and stability.

Case Studies and Statistics

A recent survey conducted by the Linux Foundation indicated that over 60% of developers experienced build issues due to kernel updates. This highlights the importance of staying informed about kernel changes and adapting your development practices accordingly.

Conclusion

In summary, the changes to seccomp profiles in kernel 6.15 can lead to build failures in snapcraft, but with the right approach, these issues can be resolved. By updating snapcraft, reviewing seccomp changes, modifying your snapcraft.yaml file, and following best practices, you can ensure your applications remain secure and functional. Stay proactive in monitoring kernel updates and adapt your snapcraft configurations to maintain compatibility and performance.