KVM: nVMX: Always make an attempt to map eVMCS after migration
Summary
GSD-2021-1000193: KVM: nVMX: Always make an attempt to map eVMCS after migration. Affects Kernel versions >= f2c7ef3ba9556d62a7e2bb23b563c6510007d55c, < bd0e8455b85b651a4c77de9616e307129b15aaa7. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel package is a fundamental component of the Linux operating system. It provides the core functionality and interfaces for the system, including device drivers, process management, memory management, and more. The vulnerability in question affects the Kernel's KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) module, specifically the nested virtualization feature known as nVMX. This feature allows running virtual machines within virtual machines. The vulnerability arises from a failure to properly map the extended Virtual Machine Control Structure (eVMCS) after migration. This can lead to potential security risks, although the actual impact and attack plausibility have not been proven.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability occurs in the KVM nVMX module when attempting to map the eVMCS after migration. This issue was introduced in version v5.11 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.12.5. The failure to correctly map the eVMCS can result in security vulnerabilities, although the specific ramifications are not yet known. It is important to note that this vulnerability has not been proven to be exploitable. The vulnerability is tracked under the ID GSD-2021-1000193.
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 v5.12.5 or later. This update includes the necessary fix to properly map the eVMCS after migration. Users should follow the standard procedure for updating the Kernel on their respective Linux distributions.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround provided for this vulnerability. The recommended course of action is to apply the fix by updating the Linux Kernel to the patched version.
Conclusion
The KVM nVMX vulnerability in the Linux Kernel version v5.11 has the potential to introduce security risks, although its actual impact and exploitability have not been proven. It is crucial to update the Kernel to version v5.12.5 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet known as it has not been proven to be exploitable. However, it has the potential to introduce security risks in systems utilizing the affected version of the Linux Kernel.
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 provide real-time monitoring and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.
Yes, a patch is available for this vulnerability in version v5.12.5 of the Linux Kernel. It is recommended to update to this version or a later one to fix the issue.
The remote exploitability of this vulnerability has not been determined. Further analysis is required to assess the potential for remote exploitation.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2021-1000193 entry of the GSD database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The link to the specific entry is available in the references section.
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