Payload Corruption Vulnerability in Linux Kernel's igb Driver
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-45030: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: igb: cope with large MAX_SKB_FRAGS Sabrina reports that the igb driver does not cope well with large MAX_SKB_FRAG values: setting MAX_SKB_FRAG to 45 cau... 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 the Linux operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources and providing essential services to applications. The igb driver is specifically designed for Intel Gigabit Ethernet adapters, facilitating high-speed network communication. This driver is crucial for ensuring reliable data transmission and network performance. However, it has been identified to have a vulnerability that can lead to payload corruption under certain configurations, particularly when the MAX_SKB_FRAG value is set too high.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the igb driver related to its handling of large MAX_SKB_FRAG values. When MAX_SKB_FRAG is set to 45, it causes payload corruption during transmission, particularly noticeable when using SSH to connect to the machine. The issue arises because the driver fails to properly account for the size of shared information when selecting the ring layout, leading to potential overlap of packet data in memory. This can result in data loss or corruption, impacting network reliability and application performance.
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
As a temporary workaround, users can reduce the MAX_SKB_FRAG value to 17, which has been confirmed to work without causing payload corruption. This can be done by modifying the driver settings or configuration files as appropriate for the system.
Conclusion
The identified vulnerability in the Linux kernel's igb driver poses a significant risk of payload corruption when using high MAX_SKB_FRAG values. Users are advised to update to the patched version 6.10.7-1 to mitigate this risk. Temporary workarounds are available, but addressing the root cause through updates is the best approach to ensure network reliability.
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FAQ
MAX_SKB_FRAG is a parameter that defines the maximum number of fragments that can be used in a socket buffer for packet transmission. Setting it too high can lead to issues in data handling.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. By uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability.
Failing to address this vulnerability can lead to data corruption during network transmission, which may affect application performance and reliability, especially for critical services.
Yes, the vulnerability affects versions prior to 6.10.7-1 of the Linux kernel. Updating to this version or later will resolve the issue.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check for vulnerabilities in your application without requiring any signup.
References
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