Vulnerability in Kernel: regulator: core: Fix enable_count imbalance with EXCLUSIVE_GET
Summary
GSD-2022-1003123: regulator: core: Fix enable_count imbalance with EXCLUSIVE_GET. Affects Kernel versions >= 5451781dadf85000665e0e2c3288e9e0f34b860a, < 38faf4be7cc6744fc2ff32ac381cc98f44bf0aec. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and facilitating communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The regulator subsystem within the Kernel is responsible for managing voltage and current regulators on the system. These regulators ensure stable power supply to various components, preventing damage and ensuring proper functioning. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the regulator core, specifically related to enable_count imbalance with EXCLUSIVE_GET.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from an enable_count imbalance issue when using the EXCLUSIVE_GET operation in the regulator core. This imbalance can lead to incorrect handling of regulator enable and disable operations, potentially resulting in system instability or improper power management. An attacker may exploit this vulnerability to disrupt the power supply to critical components, leading to system crashes or other adverse effects. The vulnerability was introduced in version v5.0 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.17.14.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the EXCLUSIVE_GET operation in the regulator core. Instead, alternative operations can be used to achieve the desired functionality without triggering the enable_count imbalance. It is important to thoroughly test any workarounds implemented to ensure they do not introduce other issues or vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the regulator core of the Kernel, related to enable_count imbalance with EXCLUSIVE_GET, can lead to system instability and improper power management. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.17.14 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. In the meantime, users can implement the recommended workaround of avoiding the use of EXCLUSIVE_GET. Regularly monitoring for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert can help ensure the security of your software.
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FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to system instability, improper power management, and potential disruption of critical components. It may result in system crashes or other adverse effects.
You can use Vulert's playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert analyzes the package-lock.json file to identify and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
At the time of this report, no known exploits for this vulnerability have been identified. However, it is important to promptly apply the recommended fix to mitigate any potential risks.
The vulnerability itself does not provide remote exploitation capabilities. However, if an attacker gains access to the system, they may be able to exploit the vulnerability to disrupt power management and cause system instability.
For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to info@devnack.com. They can provide assistance and guidance in addressing this vulnerability.
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