Kernel Memory Leak Vulnerability in Linux Package: CVE-2024-53178
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-53178: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: smb: Don't leak cfid when reconnect races with open_cached_dir open_cached_dir() may either race with the tcon reconnection even before compound_send_re... Affects linux versions < 6.12.3-1. Fixed in 6.12.3-1. 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 a core component of the operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources and providing essential services to applications. It is known for its robustness and flexibility, supporting a wide range of hardware architectures. However, vulnerabilities can arise, impacting system stability and security. CVE-2024-53178 specifically affects the Linux kernel versions prior to 6.12.3-1, leading to potential memory leaks during SMB file operations.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2024-53178 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that occurs during the handling of SMB (Server Message Block) file operations. The issue arises when the open_cached_dir function races with the tcon reconnection process, leading to a situation where a reference count of a currently constructed cfid (connection file ID) is not properly managed. This results in a memory leak, as the cfid is returned from open_cached_dir without being properly tracked, potentially leading to unreferenced objects in memory. The vulnerability can cause system instability and may be exploited to affect the performance of applications relying on SMB file shares.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.12.3-1
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 SMB file operations until the package is updated. This may involve using alternative file sharing methods or protocols that do not rely on the affected functionality.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-53178 is a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can lead to memory leaks during SMB operations. It is crucial for users to update their Linux packages to the patched version 6.12.3-1 to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
CVE-2024-53178 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can lead to memory leaks during SMB file operations.
You can check if your application is affected by using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner, which allows you to monitor for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
The vulnerability can lead to memory leaks, causing system instability and potentially affecting the performance of applications that rely on SMB file shares.
Yes, a patch is available in version 6.12.3-1 of the Linux package. It is recommended to update to this version or later.
If you cannot update immediately, consider avoiding SMB file operations as a temporary workaround until the patch is applied.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
