Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: Uninitialized Data Exposure in mt76 WiFi Driver
Summary
CVE-2024-42225: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: wifi: mt76: replace skb_put with skb_put_zero Avoid potentially reusing uninitialized data. 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 hardware and software interaction. It supports a wide range of functionalities, including device management, process scheduling, and system security. The mt76 driver is a part of the Linux kernel that manages wireless networking hardware. This driver is crucial for enabling WiFi connectivity on devices running Linux. However, it has been identified to have a vulnerability that could lead to the exposure of uninitialized data, potentially compromising system security.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, specifically within the mt76 WiFi driver, a vulnerability was discovered where the function skb_put was improperly used instead of skb_put_zero. This oversight could allow for the reuse of uninitialized data, which may lead to information leakage or unexpected behavior in the system. The vulnerability has been assigned a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level, and it poses significant risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds provided for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the necessary updates as soon as they are available.
Conclusion
The CVE-2024-42225 vulnerability in the Linux kernel's mt76 WiFi driver poses significant risks due to the potential exposure of uninitialized data. Users are strongly advised to update their systems promptly to mitigate these risks and ensure the security of their devices.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-42225 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's mt76 WiFi driver that allows for the potential reuse of uninitialized data.
The risks include exposure of sensitive information, system instability, and potential unauthorized access to system resources.
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.
It is recommended to update your Linux kernel to the latest version where the vulnerability has been fixed.
Currently, there are no specific mitigations available. The best approach is to apply the updates as soon as they are released.
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