Improper Descriptor Management in Linux Kernel: CVE-2024-46716
Summary
CVE-2024-46716: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: dmaengine: altera-msgdma: properly free descriptor in msgdma_free_descriptor Remove list_del call in msgdma_chan_desc_cleanup, this should be the role o... 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 management, process control, and system security. It is widely used in various distributions, including Debian. The kernel's dmaengine subsystem, specifically the altera-msgdma driver, is responsible for managing Direct Memory Access (DMA) operations, which allow hardware devices to access system memory independently of the CPU. This vulnerability affects the proper management of descriptors within this subsystem, potentially leading to resource leaks and system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2024-46716 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's dmaengine subsystem, specifically within the altera-msgdma driver. The issue arises from improper handling of descriptor freeing, where the list of descriptors is not correctly managed. The function msgdma_free_descriptor fails to remove the first nodes from the list, leading to memory not being freed as expected. This could result in resource leaks, causing the system to consume more memory over time and potentially leading to performance degradation or crashes. The vulnerability has been classified as having a low urgency, but it is critical to address it to maintain system stability.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the kernel update as soon as it is available.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-46716 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that affects the dmaengine subsystem's descriptor management. It is crucial for users to update their systems to mitigate the risk of resource leaks and ensure system stability. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring for such vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-46716 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's dmaengine subsystem, affecting the proper management of descriptors in the altera-msgdma driver.
The vulnerability can lead to resource leaks, causing increased memory consumption and potentially resulting in system instability or crashes.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability.
Yes, a patch has been released for the Linux kernel. Users should update to the latest version that includes the fix for CVE-2024-46716.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is advisable to monitor your system for unusual behavior and apply the update as soon as possible.
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