Xen Grant-Table Feature False Mapping Information Vulnerability (CVE-2017-10913)
Summary
CVE-2017-10913: The grant-table feature in Xen through 4.8.x provides false mapping information in certain cases of concurrent unmap calls, which allows backend attackers to obtain sensitive information or gain privileges, aka XSA-218 b... Affects xen versions < 4.9.0-r0. Fixed in 4.9.0-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Xen is an open-source hypervisor that provides virtualization capabilities for various operating systems. It allows multiple virtual machines (VMs) to run on a single physical machine, enabling efficient resource utilization. The grant-table feature in Xen, up to version 4.8.x, is susceptible to a vulnerability that can be exploited by backend attackers to obtain sensitive information or gain elevated privileges. This vulnerability is tracked as CVE-2017-10913 and is also known as XSA-218 bug 1.
Vulnerability Detail
The grant-table feature in Xen exhibits false mapping information in certain scenarios involving concurrent unmap calls. This flaw can be exploited by attackers with backend access to the system to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or elevate their privileges. The vulnerability has a CVSSv3 score of 9.8, indicating its critical severity. It was first published on July 5, 2017, and the latest modification was recorded on November 29, 2023.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.9.0-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade xenTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a workaround, users can consider implementing access controls and restrictions to limit backend access to the Xen hypervisor. By reducing the number of privileged users and employing strict access policies, the potential impact of this vulnerability can be mitigated. However, applying the official security update is still the recommended approach.
Conclusion
The Xen Grant-Table Feature False Mapping Information Vulnerability (CVE-2017-10913) is a critical security issue that can be exploited by backend attackers to gain unauthorized access or elevate privileges. To mitigate the risk, it is crucial to update the Xen package to version 4.9.0-r0 or later. Implementing access controls and restrictions can serve as a temporary workaround. For further assistance or support in addressing this vulnerability, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Xen is an open-source hypervisor that enables virtualization on various operating systems, allowing multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical machine.
The grant-table feature in Xen is responsible for managing the mapping of memory pages between domains, facilitating inter-domain communication and resource sharing.
This vulnerability in the grant-table feature of Xen can be exploited by backend attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or elevate their privileges, potentially leading to further compromise of the system.
The CVSSv3 score for this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating its critical severity.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Xen package to version 4.9.0-r0 or later, as it includes the necessary patches to address the false mapping information issue in the grant-table feature.
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