Critical NULL Pointer Dereference in Linux Kernel's nl80211 - CVE-2023-53113
Summary
CVE-2023-53113: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: wifi: nl80211: fix NULL-ptr deref in offchan check If, e.g. Affects linux versions < 6.1.25-1. Fixed in 6.1.25-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for hardware and software interaction. It supports various functionalities, including process management, memory management, and device control. The nl80211 subsystem is responsible for managing wireless networking interfaces, allowing userspace applications to interact with the kernel's wireless networking stack. This vulnerability specifically affects the nl80211 interface in scenarios where access points (AP) are created but not yet activated, leading to potential system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2023-53113 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's nl80211 subsystem, where a NULL pointer dereference can occur during off-channel checks. This situation arises when a link is created by userspace but not activated, resulting in an invalid channel definition (chandef) with no channel specified. If this condition is not properly checked, it can lead to a system crash or unexpected behavior, impacting the stability and reliability of the system.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.1.25-1
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 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-2023-53113 is a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel's nl80211 subsystem that can lead to system crashes due to a NULL pointer dereference. It is essential to update to the patched version 6.1.25-1 to ensure system stability and security. Regular monitoring for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert can help maintain the integrity of your software.
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FAQ
CVE-2023-53113 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's nl80211 subsystem that can lead to a NULL pointer dereference, potentially causing system crashes.
If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to system instability, crashes, or unexpected behavior, particularly in wireless networking scenarios.
You can use tools like Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without any signup.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is crucial to plan for an update as soon as possible to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Detailed information about CVE-2023-53113 can be found in the official CVE database and security advisories related to the Linux kernel.
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