Out-of-Bounds Vulnerability in Linux Kernel's BPF Name Validation
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-46764: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: bpf: add check for invalid name in btf_name_valid_section() If the length of the name string is 1 and the value of name[0] is NULL byte, an OOB vulnerab... Affects linux versions < 6.10.11-1. Fixed in 6.10.11-1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for all other parts of the system. It manages hardware resources and enables communication between software and hardware. The kernel is crucial for system stability and performance. This vulnerability affects the BPF (Berkeley Packet Filter) subsystem, which is used for network packet filtering and monitoring. The specific issue arises in the name validation process, potentially allowing invalid names to bypass checks.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the BPF subsystem related to the function btf_name_valid_section(). If the length of the name string is 1 and the first character is a NULL byte, an out-of-bounds (OOB) vulnerability occurs. This flaw allows invalid names to pass the validation check, which could lead to further exploitation or system instability. The root cause is the lack of proper validation for the name string, allowing for potential security breaches.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.10.11-1
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 avoid using BPF features that may be affected until the package is updated. However, the best course of action is to apply the patch as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The identified out-of-bounds vulnerability in the Linux kernel's BPF name validation function poses a significant risk. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version to ensure system security and stability. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring for such vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
The vulnerability is an out-of-bounds issue in the Linux kernel's BPF name validation function, which can allow invalid names to pass checks.
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.
If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to system instability or unauthorized access, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.
Yes, a patch has been released in version 6.10.11-1 of the Linux package. Users should update to this version or later.
If you cannot update immediately, refrain from using the affected BPF features as a temporary workaround until you can apply the patch.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
