net: hso: fix NULL-deref on disconnect regression
Summary
GSD-2021-1000049: net: hso: fix NULL-deref on disconnect regression. Affects Kernel versions >= 92028d7a31e55d53e41cff679156b9432cffcb36, < 5c17cfe155d21954b4c7e2a78fa771cebcd86725. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The net package in the Linux Kernel is responsible for handling network-related functionality. It includes various drivers and protocols for network communication. One of the drivers included is hso, which is used for High Speed Option (HSO) devices. These devices are typically used for mobile broadband connections. The hso driver allows the Linux Kernel to communicate with these devices and manage the network connection. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the hso driver that can lead to a NULL-dereference on disconnect.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the hso driver occurs when a network connection is disconnected. Under certain conditions, the driver does not properly handle the disconnect event, leading to a NULL-dereference. This can result in a kernel crash or other unexpected behavior. An attacker with local access to the system could potentially exploit this vulnerability to crash the system or execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. The vulnerability was introduced in Linux Kernel version v4.19.187 and is fixed in version v4.19.189.
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 v4.19.189 or later. This update includes a patch that addresses the NULL-dereference issue in the hso driver. Users can obtain the updated kernel from the official Linux Kernel repository. Instructions for building and installing the kernel can be found in the Linux Kernel documentation.
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Workaround
If updating the Linux Kernel is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to disable the hso driver if it is not required for the system's functionality. This can be done by blacklisting the hso module or removing it from the kernel configuration. However, this workaround may impact the ability to use HSO devices for mobile broadband connections.
Conclusion
The hso driver in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a NULL-dereference on disconnect. This can result in a kernel crash or other unexpected behavior. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.19.189 or later to fix this vulnerability. If immediate updating is not possible, disabling the hso driver can serve as a temporary workaround. For more information and support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to a kernel crash or other unexpected behavior, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file and the Vulert Playground will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
No, this vulnerability requires local access to the system in order to be exploited.
There are no known instances of this vulnerability being exploited in the wild at this time.
For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact info@devnack.com. They can provide guidance and assistance in addressing this vulnerability.
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