Uninitialized Value in r871xu_drv_init() in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1002889: staging: rtl8712: fix uninit-value in r871xu_drv_init(). Affects Kernel versions < 76a964ad0ea8f2b10abd69a7532e174a28258283. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. It provides essential services and functions for the proper functioning of the system. The rtl8712 driver is a staging driver in the Kernel that supports the Realtek RTL8712U Wireless LAN chipset. This driver enables communication between the operating system and the RTL8712U chipset, allowing wireless network connectivity. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the r871xu_drv_init() function of the rtl8712 driver.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in r871xu_drv_init() is related to the use of uninitialized values. When the function is called, certain variables may not be properly initialized, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential security risks. Attackers could potentially exploit this vulnerability to manipulate the uninitialized values and execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause a denial-of-service condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As this vulnerability has been fixed in the latest version of the Kernel, applying the update is the recommended solution. However, if updating immediately is not feasible, a temporary workaround could be to disable the rtl8712 driver or remove the affected hardware from the system. This would prevent the vulnerable code from being executed and mitigate the risk until the Kernel update can be applied.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the r871xu_drv_init() function in the rtl8712 driver of the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to an uninitialized value issue. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause a denial-of-service condition. It is recommended to update the Kernel to version v5.17.15 or later to fix this vulnerability. If immediate updating is not possible, temporarily disabling the rtl8712 driver or removing the affected hardware can serve as a mitigation measure. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven, but it could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause a denial-of-service condition.
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 to the playground, and it will analyze and alert you in real-time if the vulnerability is present.
At the time of this report, there is no known exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the recommended fix as soon as possible to mitigate any potential risks.
The specific prerequisites for exploiting this vulnerability are not yet known. Further analysis and testing may be required to determine the exact conditions under which this vulnerability can be exploited.
If updating the Kernel immediately is not possible, you can temporarily disable the rtl8712 driver or remove the affected hardware from the system as a mitigation measure. However, it is strongly recommended to update to the latest version of the Kernel as soon as possible.
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