Critical TOCTOU Vulnerability in Linux Kernel vsock Module
Summary
CVE-2025-38462: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: vsock: Fix transport_{g2h,h2g} TOCTOU vsock_find_cid() and vsock_dev_do_ioctl() may race with module unload. 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. The vsock module facilitates communication between virtual machines and the host, enabling efficient data transfer. However, this module has been found to have a vulnerability that could lead to potential security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the vsock module related to a Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) issue. Specifically, the functions vsock_find_cid() and vsock_dev_do_ioctl() may race with module unload operations, leading to a situation where pointers may become NULL after being checked. This can result in null pointer dereferences, causing system instability or crashes. The vulnerability is characterized by KASAN reports indicating null pointer dereferences in specific memory ranges, which can be exploited if not addressed.
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. It is recommended to apply the patch as soon as it becomes available.
Conclusion
The vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's vsock module poses significant risks due to potential null pointer dereferences. Users are strongly encouraged to update their systems to the latest kernel versions to protect against this issue. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
The vulnerability is a TOCTOU issue in the vsock module of the Linux kernel, which can lead to null pointer dereferences.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can cause system crashes or instability, potentially leading to denial of service.
Yes, users are advised to update their Linux packages to the latest version to apply the necessary patches.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without requiring any signup.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is crucial to prioritize updating your system to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
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