libbpf: Potential NULL Pointer Dereference

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

31/05/2021

Disclosed on

N/A

Severity

No i

Fix available

Unrated

Severity

Not published

CVSS Score

GSD-2021-1000016: libbpf: Fix potential NULL pointer dereference. Affects Kernel versions >= 00b6712eae9f046cb6f820a9ff9fd6b966f01f9c, < b33f7e0d5e86e1c758d76838ef7e831d99b176bf. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The libbpf library is a component of the Linux Kernel ecosystem. It provides a high-level interface for interacting with the Berkeley Packet Filter (BPF) virtual machine. BPF is a technology used for efficient packet filtering and network monitoring. The libbpf library allows developers to load and execute BPF programs within their applications. However, a potential vulnerability has been identified in the library that could lead to a NULL pointer dereference.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in libbpf arises from a potential NULL pointer dereference. This means that under certain conditions, the library may attempt to access memory using a pointer that is not pointing to a valid object. This can result in a crash or potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability was introduced in version v5.11.14 of the Linux Kernel and was fixed in version v5.11.16.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.11.16 or later. This can be done by pulling the latest changes from the official Linux Kernel repository and rebuilding the kernel. Alternatively, users can wait for their Linux distribution to release an updated package containing the fix.

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to update to the fixed version of the Linux Kernel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the libbpf library in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a potential NULL pointer dereference. This vulnerability can lead to crashes or allow attackers to execute arbitrary code. It is crucial to update to the fixed version of the Linux Kernel (v5.11.16 or later) to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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