Double Fetch Vulnerability in Linux Kernel (CVE-2019-12456)
Summary
CVE-2019-12456: An issue was discovered in the MPT3COMMAND case in _ctl_ioctl_main in drivers/scsi/mpt3sas/mpt3sas_ctl.c in the Linux kernel through 5.1.5. Affects linux versions 5.10.103-1 – 6.9.9-1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is an open-source monolithic Unix-like computer operating system kernel. It provides the core functionality for various Linux distributions. The kernel is responsible for managing system resources, facilitating communication between hardware and software components, and enforcing security policies. The MPT3SAS driver in the Linux kernel is used for managing SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) host bus adapters. This driver allows the system to communicate with SAS devices such as hard drives and tape drives. However, a vulnerability, known as CVE-2019-12456, has been discovered in the MPT3SAS driver.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2019-12456 is a double fetch vulnerability that exists in the MPT3SAS driver in the Linux kernel versions up to 5.1.5. This vulnerability allows local users to cause a denial of service or potentially have other unspecified impacts by changing the value of 'ioc_number' between two kernel reads of that value. This vulnerability occurs due to a race condition where the value of 'ioc_number' is not properly synchronized, leading to inconsistent reads. Although a third party claims that the doubly fetched value is not used, the impact of this vulnerability may vary depending on the specific system configuration and usage.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround provided for this vulnerability. However, users can mitigate the risk by following best practices for system security, such as restricting local access to trusted users and implementing strong access controls. Regularly updating the kernel and other software components is also crucial to minimize the risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
CVE-2019-12456 is a double fetch vulnerability in the MPT3SAS driver of the Linux kernel. It allows local users to cause a denial of service or potentially have other impacts by manipulating the 'ioc_number' value. While a third party claims that the doubly fetched value is not used, it is still recommended to update the Linux kernel to a version that includes the fix. Regularly updating the kernel and following best practices for system security can help mitigate the risk of exploitation. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the system configuration and usage. It may allow local users to cause a denial of service or potentially have other unspecified impacts. However, a third party claims that the doubly fetched value is not used, which may limit the exploitability of this vulnerability.
You can use vulnerability management tools like Vulert to scan your system and check for the presence of this vulnerability. Vulert uses a manifest file like package-lock.json to monitor and alert in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in the software. You can also use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without any signup.
Yes, the Linux kernel developers have addressed this vulnerability in subsequent releases. It is recommended to update the Linux kernel to a version that includes the relevant patch. Check for updates provided by your Linux distribution or manually update the kernel.
As of now, there are no known exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the necessary patches and updates to mitigate the risk of potential exploitation.
To enhance the security of your Linux system, follow best practices such as regularly updating the kernel and other software components, implementing strong access controls, using firewalls, and monitoring for security vulnerabilities. Additionally, consider using vulnerability management tools like Vulert to proactively identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
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