Kernel Vulnerability in Linux Package: NULL Pointer Dereference in MediaTek DisplayPort Driver

linux Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

18/09/2025
N/A
Yes i
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Not published

CVE-2023-53389: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: drm/mediatek: dp: Only trigger DRM HPD events if bridge is attached The MediaTek DisplayPort interface bridge driver starts its interrupts as soon as it... Affects linux versions < 6.1.37-1. Fixed in 6.1.37-1. 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 interactions. It is widely used in various distributions, including Debian. The kernel manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software components. This vulnerability affects the MediaTek DisplayPort interface bridge driver, which is responsible for handling DisplayPort connections. The issue arises when the driver triggers interrupts before being properly attached to a DRM device, leading to potential system instability.

Vulnerability Detail

In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the MediaTek DisplayPort interface bridge driver. The driver initiates interrupts upon probing, but if the bridge is not yet attached to a DRM device, it can lead to a NULL pointer dereference. This occurs because the function drm_helper_hpd_irq_event() does not validate the drm_device passed to it. As a result, a NULL pointer can cause a kernel crash, leading to system instability and potential data loss. This vulnerability is classified as CVE-2023-53389.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

6.1.37-1

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 mitigate the risk.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-53389 is a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel that affects the MediaTek DisplayPort interface bridge driver. It can lead to system instability due to a NULL pointer dereference. Users are advised to update their systems to the latest patched versions to mitigate this risk.

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FAQ

CVE-2023-53389 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to the MediaTek DisplayPort interface bridge driver, which can lead to a NULL pointer dereference.

This vulnerability can cause system crashes and instability, potentially leading to data loss if the kernel encounters a NULL pointer dereference.

You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability.

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-2023-53389 can be found in the official CVE database and security advisories related to the Linux kernel.

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How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

6.1.37-1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linux

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