Use-after-free vulnerability in wifi: mac80211
Summary
GSD-2022-1002680: wifi: mac80211: fix use-after-free in chanctx code. Affects Kernel versions >= 5bcae31d9cb1ebfad3ad5a3eea04c8cdc329a04f, < 4f05a9e15edcdf5b97e0d86ab6ecd5f187289f6c. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The wifi package, specifically the mac80211 module, is responsible for managing wireless network connections in the Linux Kernel. It provides the necessary functionality for handling various aspects of wireless communication, such as channel context (chanctx) management. The chanctx code allows for the configuration and tracking of channel contexts for different wireless channels. However, a use-after-free vulnerability has been discovered in this code.
Vulnerability Detail
The use-after-free vulnerability in the chanctx code of wifi: mac80211 allows an attacker to exploit a freed memory region. This can lead to a variety of potential security issues, including remote code execution, privilege escalation, or denial of service. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of channel context objects, which can be freed but still accessed by certain operations. An attacker could craft malicious input to trigger the use of the freed memory, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential compromise of the system.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the provided fix by updating the Linux Kernel to a version that includes the necessary patch.
Conclusion
The use-after-free vulnerability in wifi: mac80211's chanctx code poses a significant security risk, potentially allowing for remote code execution or other malicious activities. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to a version that includes the fix to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the specific exploitation scenario. However, potential consequences include remote code execution, privilege escalation, or denial of service.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file, and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
At the time of this report, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the provided fix to mitigate any potential risk.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely. An attacker can craft malicious input to trigger the use-after-free vulnerability in the chanctx code, potentially leading to remote code execution or other security compromises.
The primary mitigation for this vulnerability is to update the Linux Kernel to a version that includes the fix. It is recommended to stay up to date with the latest security patches and follow best practices for system administration and network security.
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