Bluetooth: hci_qca: Use del_timer_sync() before freeing
Summary
GSD-2022-1003180: Bluetooth: hci_qca: Use del_timer_sync() before freeing. Affects Kernel versions >= 0ff252c1976da5d80db1377eb39b551931e61826, < 37d17f63d085d601011964ade7371aeebeb6ed4b. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Bluetooth package in the Linux Kernel is responsible for providing support for Bluetooth devices and protocols. It allows for wireless communication between devices, enabling features such as file transfer, audio streaming, and device pairing. The hci_qca module within the Bluetooth package is specifically designed for Qualcomm Atheros Bluetooth chipsets. This vulnerability affects the hci_qca module and can potentially be exploited by attackers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the hci_qca module arises from a failure to use del_timer_sync() before freeing resources. This can lead to a use-after-free scenario, where a timer is still active after the associated resources have been freed. An attacker may be able to exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition. The vulnerability was introduced in version v4.3 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.17.13.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If updating the Linux Kernel is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to disable the hci_qca module. This can be achieved by blacklisting the module or removing it from the kernel configuration. However, it is important to note that this workaround may result in the loss of Bluetooth functionality for Qualcomm Atheros chipsets.
Conclusion
The Bluetooth hci_qca module in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a use-after-free scenario due to a missing del_timer_sync() call before freeing resources. This can potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.17.13 or later to fix this vulnerability. Alternatively, disabling the hci_qca module can serve as a temporary workaround, but it may result in the loss of Bluetooth functionality for Qualcomm Atheros chipsets. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
This vulnerability can potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code 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 manifest file, such as package-lock.json, and the playground will provide real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v5.17.13. It is recommended to update to this version or later to mitigate the risk.
Yes, you can disable the hci_qca module as a temporary workaround. However, this may result in the loss of Bluetooth functionality for Qualcomm Atheros chipsets.
At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is still important to apply the necessary updates and security patches to protect against potential future exploits.
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