Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: Improper Device Management in Thermal Cooling
Summary
CVE-2023-53012: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: thermal: core: call put_device() only after device_register() fails put_device() shouldn't be called before a prior call to device_register(). Affects linux versions < 6.1.11-1. Fixed in 6.1.11-1. 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 scheduling, and system security. It is widely used across various platforms, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems. The kernel's thermal management subsystem is responsible for regulating temperature and preventing overheating by managing cooling devices. However, a recent vulnerability has been identified that affects the proper registration and management of these thermal cooling devices, potentially leading to system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been discovered in the thermal management subsystem where the function put_device() is incorrectly called before the device_register() function. This mismanagement can lead to resource leaks and improper device handling, which may result in system crashes or degraded performance. The issue arises in the __thermal_cooling_device_register() function, which fails to follow the correct order of operations. Additionally, the thermal_cooling_device_destroy_sysfs() function is invoked unnecessarily on certain error paths, compounding the issue.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.1.11-1
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
Currently, there are no specific workarounds provided for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the patch by updating to the fixed version of the Linux kernel.
Conclusion
The CVE-2023-53012 vulnerability in the Linux kernel highlights critical issues in the thermal management subsystem's device handling. Users are strongly encouraged to update their systems to the patched version to ensure stability and security. Monitoring tools like Vulert can assist in identifying vulnerabilities in your software without requiring code access.
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FAQ
CVE-2023-53012 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's thermal management subsystem that involves improper device management, potentially leading to system instability.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By utilizing the Vulert playground, you can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to resource leaks, improper device handling, and potentially cause system crashes or degraded performance.
Yes, a patch is available in version 6.1.11-1 of the Linux kernel. Users are advised to update to this version or later.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is crucial to prioritize updating your kernel as soon as possible to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
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