Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: ath11k Monitor Mode Data Protection Flaw
Summary
CVE-2024-58096: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: wifi: ath11k: add srng->lock for ath11k_hal_srng_* in monitor mode ath11k_hal_srng_* should be used with srng->lock to protect srng 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 a core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for hardware and software interaction. It supports a wide range of functionalities, including process management, memory management, and device control. The ath11k driver is specifically designed for Qualcomm Atheros wireless devices, enabling efficient communication in wireless networks. However, a recent vulnerability has been identified in the ath11k driver that compromises data integrity in monitor mode, potentially exposing systems to instability and security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, specifically within the ath11k driver, a vulnerability exists due to the improper use of the ath11k_hal_srng_* functions without the necessary srng->lock protection in monitor mode. This oversight can lead to warnings and potential data corruption when processing monitor mode packets. The vulnerability arises from the failure to lock critical data structures during operations, which can result in race conditions and unpredictable behavior. The warning messages indicate that the system may not handle incoming data correctly, leading to further complications in network performance and reliability.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable monitor mode in the ath11k driver configuration to avoid triggering the vulnerability until a patch is applied. This can be done by modifying the driver settings or using the following command: sudo iw dev <interface> set type managed, replacing <interface> with the appropriate network interface name.
Conclusion
The CVE-2024-58096 vulnerability in the Linux kernel's ath11k driver poses significant risks when operating in monitor mode. It is crucial for users to update their systems to the latest kernel version to ensure data integrity and network stability. Temporary workarounds are available, but applying the patch is the best long-term solution.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-58096 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's ath11k driver that affects data processing in monitor mode due to missing locking mechanisms.
This vulnerability can lead to warnings and potential data corruption when the ath11k driver is used in monitor mode, affecting network stability and performance.
Yes, a patch has been released in newer versions of the Linux kernel. Users should update their kernel to the latest version to mitigate the risk.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. You can check your application for this vulnerability using the Vulert playground.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider disabling monitor mode in the ath11k driver as a temporary workaround to prevent triggering the vulnerability.
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