Race Condition Vulnerability in Linux Kernel f2fs Package - CVE-2024-53218
Summary
CVE-2024-53218: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: f2fs: fix race in concurrent f2fs_stop_gc_thread In my test case, concurrent calls to f2fs shutdown report the following stack trace: Oops: general prot... Affects linux versions 5.10.103-1 – 6.9.9-1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources and providing essential services to software applications. The f2fs (Flash-Friendly File System) is designed to optimize performance on flash storage devices. This vulnerability arises from a race condition in the f2fs_stop_gc_thread function, which can lead to a general protection fault when concurrent shutdowns occur, potentially compromising system stability.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2024-53218 is a race condition vulnerability in the f2fs file system within the Linux kernel. It occurs when multiple threads attempt to stop the garbage collection thread simultaneously, leading to a use-after-free scenario. This can result in a general protection fault, causing system crashes or unexpected behavior. The vulnerability was introduced due to improper synchronization between shutdown and remount operations, which was not fully addressed by previous patches.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. It is advisable to avoid concurrent shutdown operations on the f2fs file system until the patch is applied.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-53218 is a critical race condition vulnerability in the f2fs file system of the Linux kernel that can lead to system crashes. Users are advised to update their Linux packages to the latest version to mitigate this risk. Monitoring tools like Vulert can help in identifying vulnerabilities in your applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-53218 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's f2fs file system that arises from a race condition, potentially leading to system crashes.
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 without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability can lead to general protection faults, causing system instability and crashes, especially during concurrent shutdown operations.
Yes, a patch is available in version 6.12.3-1 of the Linux package. It is important to update to this version or later.
If an immediate update is not possible, avoid performing concurrent shutdowns on the f2fs file system to mitigate the risk of triggering the vulnerability.
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