Critical Use-After-Free Vulnerability in Linux Package: CVE-2013-4343
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2013-4343: Use-after-free vulnerability in drivers/net/tun.c in the Linux kernel through 3.11.1 allows local users to gain privileges by leveraging the CAP_NET_ADMIN capability and providing an invalid tuntap interface name in a TU... Affects linux versions < 3.11.5-1. Fixed in 3.11.5-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux package is a core component of the Debian operating system, providing essential functionalities for managing hardware and system resources. It is widely used across various distributions and versions, including Debian 11, 12, 13, and 14. This package is crucial for system stability and performance, making it a prime target for vulnerabilities that could compromise system security.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4343 is a use-after-free issue located in the tun.c driver of the Linux kernel, affecting versions up to 3.11.1. This flaw allows local users with the CAP_NET_ADMIN capability to exploit the vulnerability by providing an invalid tuntap interface name during a TUNSETIFF ioctl call. The consequences of this vulnerability can lead to privilege escalation, potentially allowing unauthorized users to gain elevated access to system resources.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
3.11.5-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linuxTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the TUNSETIFF ioctl call with invalid tuntap interface names. However, this does not eliminate the underlying vulnerability and should only be considered a short-term measure until the package is updated.
Conclusion
CVE-2013-4343 is a significant vulnerability in the Linux package that poses a risk of privilege escalation for local users. It is crucial to update the package to the patched version to mitigate this risk. Users should also consider using Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in their applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2013-4343 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows local users to escalate privileges.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The primary risk is privilege escalation, which could allow unauthorized users to gain elevated access to system resources, potentially compromising system security.
Yes, the patch is available in version 3.11.5-1 and later of the Linux package.
If immediate updates are not possible, avoid using the TUNSETIFF ioctl call with invalid tuntap interface names as a temporary workaround.
References
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