Use-After-Free Vulnerability in Linux Kernel's PCI Management - CVE-2023-53123

linux Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

02/05/2025
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

CVE-2023-53123: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: PCI: s390: Fix use-after-free of PCI resources with per-function hotplug On s390 PCI functions may be hotplugged individually even when they belong to a... 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 a core component of many operating systems, providing essential functionalities for hardware management and system operations. It supports various architectures, including s390, which allows for advanced features like PCI hotplugging. This specific vulnerability affects the handling of PCI resources during the hotplugging process, particularly for multi-function devices and SR-IOV devices, which can lead to system instability and security risks.

Vulnerability Detail

In the Linux kernel, a use-after-free vulnerability was identified in the PCI management code for the s390 architecture. This issue arises when PCI functions are hot-unplugged and later re-added, leading to stale references to freed MMIO resources. If these resources are claimed again upon re-adding the PCI function, it can result in undefined behavior, crashes, or potential security exploits. The vulnerability was introduced in commit a50297cf8235, where the resource management for PCI functions was not correctly handled during hotplug operations.

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 linux

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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 is available to avoid potential risks.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-53123 represents a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel's PCI management for the s390 architecture, highlighting the importance of timely updates and monitoring for open-source vulnerabilities. Users are encouraged to update their systems to the latest kernel version to ensure protection against potential exploits.

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FAQ

CVE-2023-53123 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's PCI management for the s390 architecture, which can lead to system instability and security risks.

If exploited, this vulnerability can cause crashes or allow unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to security breaches.

You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check for vulnerabilities in real-time.

Yes, a patch is available in version 6.1.25-1 of the Linux kernel. Updating to this version will resolve the vulnerability.

While there are no specific workarounds, it is crucial to prioritize updating your kernel to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.

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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 linux

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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