net: hso: fix NULL-deref on disconnect regression
Summary
GSD-2021-1000186: net: hso: fix NULL-deref on disconnect regression. Affects Kernel versions >= 4a2933c88399c0ebc738db39bbce3ae89786d723, < d7fad2ce15bdbbd0fec3ebe999fd7cab2267f53e. 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 vulnerability in the hso driver can lead to a NULL-dereference on disconnect, causing a system crash or potential privilege escalation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the hso driver occurs when a disconnect event is triggered. Due to a programming error, the driver fails to handle this event properly, resulting in a NULL-dereference. An attacker with local access to the system or a maliciously crafted network packet could exploit this vulnerability to crash the system or potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The impact of this vulnerability depends on the context in which the hso driver is used, but it has the potential to disrupt network connectivity or compromise the security of the system.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can disable the hso driver if it is not required for their system. This can be done by blacklisting the 'hso' module or removing it from the kernel configuration before compiling. However, this workaround should only be considered if the hso driver is not essential for the system's functionality.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the hso driver of the Linux Kernel can lead to a NULL-dereference on disconnect, potentially causing system crashes or privilege escalation. It is recommended to update the kernel to the latest version to mitigate the risk. Users can also consider disabling the hso driver if it is not essential for their system. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability depends on the context in which the hso driver is used. It can lead to system crashes, disruption of network connectivity, or potential privilege escalation.
You can use tools like Vulert (https://vulert.com) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert uses a manifest file like package-lock.json to monitor and alert in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in the software.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in the Linux Kernel version v5.4.115. Users are advised to update their kernel to the latest version to mitigate the risk.
Yes, you can disable the hso driver if it is not required for your system. This can be done by blacklisting the 'hso' module or removing it from the kernel configuration before compiling.
You can refer to the vulnerability details in the GSD database (https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1000xxx/GSD-2021-1000186.json) for more information about this vulnerability.
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