Critical Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in Intel Ethernet Controller RDMA Driver for Linux

linux Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

11/08/2023
N/A
Yes i
Critical
9.8

CVE-2023-25775: Improper access control in the Intel(R) Ethernet Controller RDMA driver for linux before version 1.9.30 may allow an unauthenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via network access. Affects linux versions < 5.10.205-2. Fixed in 5.10.205-2. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Intel Ethernet Controller RDMA driver is a crucial component for enabling Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA) capabilities in Linux environments. This driver facilitates high-performance networking by allowing direct memory access from the memory of one computer to another without involving the operating system. However, prior to version 1.9.30, the driver exhibited improper access control, making it susceptible to exploitation by unauthorized users.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-25775, stems from improper access control in the Intel Ethernet Controller RDMA driver for Linux. This flaw allows unauthenticated users to potentially escalate their privileges via network access. The implications of this vulnerability are severe, as it could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources, leading to potential data breaches or system compromises. The vulnerability affects multiple Debian versions, including Debian 11, 12, and 13, with specific versions needing updates to mitigate the risk.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

5.10.205-2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linux

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Workaround

If immediate upgrading is not feasible, consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to the vulnerable driver. Additionally, monitor network traffic for any unauthorized access attempts and apply strict firewall rules to mitigate potential exploitation.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-25775 represents a significant security risk for users of the Intel Ethernet Controller RDMA driver in Linux. Immediate action is required to upgrade to the fixed versions to prevent potential exploitation. Users should also consider implementing workarounds until they can apply the necessary updates.

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FAQ

CVE-2023-25775 is a critical vulnerability in the Intel Ethernet Controller RDMA driver for Linux that allows unauthorized users to escalate privileges via network access.

Debian versions 11, 12, and 13 are affected by this vulnerability, requiring specific updates to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive system resources, data breaches, or complete system compromise.

You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Check your application against this vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.

The CVSS score for CVE-2023-25775 is 9.8, indicating a critical level of severity.

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How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

5.10.205-2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linux

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