Open Source Vulnerability in user-mode-linux

user-mode-linux Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

31/12/2002
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

CVE-2002-2016: User-mode Linux (UML) 2.4.17-8 does not restrict access to kernel address space, which allows local users to execute arbitrary code. Affects user-mode-linux versions < 2.4.17-9. Fixed in 2.4.17-9. How to fix ↓

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Background

user-mode Linux (UML) is a virtualization solution that allows multiple Linux kernels to run on a single host machine. It provides a way to create and manage virtual Linux systems, known as UML instances, which can be used for various purposes such as testing, development, and isolation. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in UML version 2.4.17-8 that allows local users to execute arbitrary code by accessing the kernel address space.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in user-mode Linux (UML) version 2.4.17-8 arises from a lack of access restrictions to the kernel address space. This allows local users to exploit the vulnerability and execute arbitrary code. The consequences of this vulnerability can be severe, as an attacker with local access to the system can gain unauthorized control and potentially compromise the entire system. It is crucial to address this vulnerability promptly to prevent any potential exploitation.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.4.17-9

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade user-mode-linux

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. The recommended approach is to update the user-mode Linux package to the fixed version.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in user-mode Linux (UML) version 2.4.17-8 allows local users to execute arbitrary code by accessing the kernel address space. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update the user-mode Linux package to version 2.4.17-9 or later. Failure to address this vulnerability can result in unauthorized control of the system and potential compromise. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

User-mode Linux (UML) is a virtualization solution that allows multiple Linux kernels to run on a single host machine. It provides a way to create and manage virtual Linux systems, known as UML instances, which can be used for various purposes such as testing, development, and isolation.

The vulnerability allows local users to execute arbitrary code by accessing the kernel address space. This can lead to unauthorized control of the system and potential compromise of the entire system.

To fix this vulnerability, update the user-mode Linux package to version 2.4.17-9 or later. This version includes the necessary access restrictions to the kernel address space.

There are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. It is recommended to update the user-mode Linux package to the fixed version.

For more information about this vulnerability, you can refer to the CVE-2002-2016 entry in the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) or the provided source link.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for user-mode-linux.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.4.17-9

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade user-mode-linux

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