Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: Netfilter Extack Initialization Issue
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-44945: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: netfilter: nfnetlink: Initialise extack before use in ACKs Add missing extack initialisation when ACKing BATCH_BEGIN and BATCH_END. Affects linux versions < 6.10.7-1. Fixed in 6.10.7-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, including Debian. It manages system resources and hardware communication, providing essential services for software applications. This vulnerability affects the netfilter subsystem, which is responsible for packet filtering, network address translation, and other networking-related tasks. The specific issue involves the improper initialization of the extack structure, which can lead to unexpected behavior during network operations.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the netfilter subsystem where the extack structure is not properly initialized before use in acknowledgment messages for batch operations. This oversight can lead to undefined behavior, potentially allowing attackers to exploit the system through crafted network packets. The vulnerability has been assigned the identifier DEBIAN-CVE-2024-44945 and affects both Debian 13 and 14 versions of the Linux package. The lack of proper initialization may compromise the integrity and security of network communications.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.10.7-1
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 the Linux kernel to the fixed version.
Conclusion
The vulnerability DEBIAN-CVE-2024-44945 in the Linux kernel's netfilter subsystem poses a significant risk due to improper initialization of the extack structure. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version 6.10.7-1 to mitigate potential security threats. Regular monitoring for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert can help maintain system security.
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FAQ
The vulnerability involves improper initialization of the extack structure in the netfilter subsystem of the Linux kernel, which can lead to undefined behavior.
The vulnerability affects Debian 13 and 14 versions of the Linux kernel prior to the fixed version 6.10.7-1.
You can check your Linux kernel version by running 'uname -r' in the terminal. If it is below 6.10.7-1, your system is affected.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
References
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