Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in Linux Kernel - NFS Client Handling
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-54456: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: NFS: Fix potential buffer overflowin nfs_sysfs_link_rpc_client() name is char[64] where the size of clnt->cl_program->name remains unknown. Affects linux versions < 6.12.16-1. Fixed in 6.12.16-1. 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 the Linux operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources and providing essential services to software applications. It supports a wide range of functionalities, including process management, memory management, and device control. The kernel is crucial for system stability and performance, and vulnerabilities within it can lead to severe security risks. This specific vulnerability affects the NFS (Network File System) client, which allows remote file access over a network, making it particularly critical for systems relying on networked storage solutions.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the NFS client handling, specifically in the function nfs_sysfs_link_rpc_client(). The issue arises from a potential buffer overflow due to the use of the strcat() function, which can lead to memory corruption and unexpected behavior. The size of the clnt->cl_program->name is unknown, which increases the risk of overflowing the buffer defined as char[64]. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the system, posing a significant threat to system integrity and security.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.12.16-1
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 workaround, it is recommended to avoid using the NFS client until the patch is applied. Additionally, users can modify the source code to replace the strcat() function with safer alternatives like strscpy() and strncat() to mitigate the risk of buffer overflow until an official patch is implemented.
Conclusion
The identified buffer overflow vulnerability in the Linux kernel's NFS client handling poses significant risks to system security. It is crucial for users to update their systems to the patched version to mitigate these risks. Utilizing tools like Vulert can aid in monitoring vulnerabilities in open-source software effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
The vulnerability is a potential buffer overflow in the NFS client handling within the Linux kernel, which can lead to memory corruption.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes, compromising system security and stability.
Yes, a patch is available in version 6.12.16-1 of the Linux package. It is recommended to update to this version or later.
If immediate updating is not possible, consider disabling the NFS client or modifying the source code to use safer string handling functions as a temporary measure.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
