Critical RDMA Flow Rule Vulnerability in Linux Kernel Packages
Summary
CVE-2021-47265: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: RDMA: Verify port when creating flow rule Validate port value provided by the user and with that remove no longer needed validation by the driver. 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 the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for all other parts of the system. It manages hardware resources and facilitates communication between software and hardware. This vulnerability specifically affects the RDMA (Remote Direct Memory Access) subsystem, which allows for high-throughput, low-latency networking. The flaw arises from inadequate validation of port values when creating flow rules, potentially leading to system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2021-47265, originates from a missing validation check in the mlx5_ib driver within the Linux kernel. This oversight allows a user to provide an invalid port value when creating a flow rule, which can lead to a system crash (oops). The call trace indicates that the issue occurs during the flow rule creation process, potentially affecting system reliability and security. If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to disrupt system operations or gain unauthorized access to system resources.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid creating flow rules that involve potentially invalid port values until the kernel is updated. This may involve reviewing and modifying existing configurations to ensure compliance with valid port specifications.
Conclusion
CVE-2021-47265 represents a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can compromise system stability and security. Users are strongly advised to update their kernel packages to mitigate the risks associated with this issue. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring for such vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2021-47265 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to inadequate validation of port values in the RDMA subsystem, which can lead to system crashes.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to system instability, crashes, and unauthorized access to system resources.
The vulnerability affects various versions of the Linux kernel in Debian 11, 12, and 13, particularly those prior to the fixed version 5.14.6-1.
Yes, the permanent fix is to update the Linux kernel to the latest version that includes the patch for this vulnerability.
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