Critical NULL Pointer Dereference in Linux Kernel's SCSI UFS Module
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-56621: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: scsi: ufs: core: Cancel RTC work during ufshcd_remove() Currently, RTC work is only cancelled during __ufshcd_wl_suspend(). Affects linux versions < 6.12.5-1. Fixed in 6.12.5-1. 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 hardware and software interaction. It supports a wide range of hardware architectures and is known for its stability and performance. The SCSI UFS (Universal Flash Storage) module is responsible for managing UFS devices, which are commonly used in mobile devices and embedded systems. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of real-time clock (RTC) work during the removal of UFS host controllers, leading to potential system crashes.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as DEBIAN-CVE-2024-56621, occurs when the RTC work is not cancelled during the ufshcd_remove() function. This oversight can lead to a NULL pointer dereference if the RTC work is triggered after the UFS host controller has been removed. The resulting system behavior can cause kernel panics, making the system unstable and potentially leading to data loss or corruption. The vulnerability affects both Debian 13 and 14 versions of the Linux package, with the issue being introduced from version 0 and fixed in version 6.12.5-1.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.12.5-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linux
Tip — 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 package as described above.
Conclusion
The vulnerability DEBIAN-CVE-2024-56621 in the Linux kernel's SCSI UFS module poses a significant risk of system instability due to NULL pointer dereference. Users are strongly encouraged to update their systems to the patched version to mitigate this risk.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
It is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to the SCSI UFS module that can lead to a NULL pointer dereference.
It can cause kernel panics, leading to system instability and potential data loss.
Debian 13 and 14 versions of the Linux package are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without any signup.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is advisable to monitor the system closely and apply the update as soon as possible.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.