Logic Error in libmount Library of util-linux

util-linux Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

23/08/2022
N/A
Yes i
Medium
5.5

CVE-2021-3995: A logic error was found in the libmount library of util-linux in the function that allows an unprivileged user to unmount a FUSE filesystem. Affects util-linux across 3 version ranges.

< 2.37.3-r0 < 57202f5713afa2af20ffbb6ab5331481d0396f8d >= d4319b91c9d7d69e7b954fc66819214f81501312, < 331a1e6e10f7943a12112c7161a8c995c1c5b9b9

Fixed in 2.37.3-r0. How to fix ↓

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Background

The util-linux package is a collection of essential utilities for Linux systems. It provides various tools for managing file systems, mounting and unmounting devices, and performing other system-related tasks. The libmount library within util-linux is responsible for handling mount and unmount operations. It is commonly used by applications and system components to manage file systems and mount points.

Vulnerability Detail

A logic error has been discovered in the libmount library of util-linux. The vulnerability allows an unprivileged local attacker to unmount FUSE (Filesystem in Userspace) filesystems that belong to certain other users. This can be exploited when the attacker's User ID (UID) is a prefix of the UID of the target user. By leveraging this flaw, an attacker can cause a denial of service to applications that rely on the affected filesystems. The vulnerability has a CVSSv3 score of 5.5, indicating a moderate severity level.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.37.3-r0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apk add --upgrade util-linux

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability at the moment. It is advised to apply the recommended fix by updating the util-linux package to the latest version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a logic error in the libmount library of util-linux allows unprivileged local attackers to unmount FUSE filesystems belonging to certain other users. This can result in a denial of service to applications using the affected filesystems. It is recommended to update the util-linux package to version 2.37.3-r0 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further assistance or support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Util-linux is a collection of essential utilities for Linux systems, providing tools for managing file systems, mounting and unmounting devices, and performing other system-related tasks.

The libmount library is part of the util-linux package and is responsible for handling mount and unmount operations. It is commonly used by applications and system components to manage file systems and mount points.

A FUSE (Filesystem in Userspace) filesystem allows non-privileged users to create and mount file systems without requiring root access. It enables users to implement custom file systems using user-level code.

An unprivileged local attacker can exploit this vulnerability by unmounting FUSE filesystems that belong to certain other users. The attacker's UID must be a prefix of the target user's UID in its string form.

The vulnerability allows an attacker to cause a denial of service to applications that rely on the affected FUSE filesystems. This can disrupt the normal operation of these applications and potentially lead to data loss or system instability.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for util-linux.

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How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.37.3-r0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apk add --upgrade util-linux

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