Memory Leak Vulnerability in Linux Kernel - CVE-2023-53402
Summary
CVE-2023-53402: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: kernel/printk/index.c: fix memory leak with using debugfs_lookup() When calling debugfs_lookup() the result must have dput() called on it, otherwise the... Affects linux versions 5.10.103-1 – 6.9.9-1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, managing hardware resources and providing essential services for software applications. It is known for its stability, performance, and security features. However, like any complex software, it can have vulnerabilities. CVE-2023-53402 addresses a specific memory leak issue that arises from improper handling of debugfs_lookup(), which can lead to resource exhaustion over time.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2023-53402 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that occurs when the debugfs_lookup() function is called without a corresponding dput() call to release the memory. This oversight can result in a memory leak, causing the system to consume more memory over time, potentially leading to degraded performance or system crashes. The vulnerability is rooted in the kernel's handling of debug file systems, where developers must ensure proper memory management to prevent leaks.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
There are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the patch by updating to the fixed version of the Linux kernel.
Conclusion
CVE-2023-53402 is a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can lead to memory leaks if not addressed. Users are strongly encouraged to update their systems to the patched version to ensure stability and security. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
CVE-2023-53402 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that causes a memory leak due to improper handling of the debugfs_lookup() function.
This vulnerability can lead to increased memory consumption over time, potentially resulting in system performance degradation or crashes.
The vulnerability affects various Debian versions, including Debian 11, 12, 13, and 14. Check your kernel version to determine if you are impacted.
You can protect your system by updating to the patched version of the Linux kernel (6.1.20-1) as soon as possible.
Vulert is a tool that can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. You can use the Vulert playground to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
