KVM: nVMX: Always make an attempt to map eVMCS after migration
Summary
GSD-2021-1000313: KVM: nVMX: Always make an attempt to map eVMCS after migration. Affects Kernel versions >= 0faceb7d6dda6f370ff1fa0464d7180f7e5cb417, < c8bf64e3fb77cc19bad146fbe26651985b117194. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel package is a critical component of the Linux operating system. It provides the core functionality and interfaces for the system's hardware, software, and processes. KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) is a module within the Kernel that enables virtualization on Linux systems. It allows users to run multiple virtual machines (VMs) on a single physical machine. The nVMX (nested Virtual Machine eXtensions) feature in KVM enables the creation and management of nested VMs within a primary VM. This vulnerability affects the nVMX feature in KVM.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the nVMX feature of KVM allows an attacker to bypass certain security measures and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or execute arbitrary code within the nested VMs. The issue arises when migrating a nested VM from one host to another. During the migration process, there is a failure to properly map the extended Virtual Machine Control Structure (eVMCS) in the destination host, leaving it vulnerable to exploitation. An attacker with access to the nested VM can exploit this vulnerability to escalate privileges, perform unauthorized actions, or launch further attacks within the VM.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. Users are advised to apply the recommended fix by updating their Linux Kernel to the latest stable version.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the nVMX feature of KVM can lead to unauthorized access and potential compromise of nested VMs. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to the latest stable version to ensure the vulnerability is patched. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
This vulnerability allows an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or execute arbitrary code within nested VMs, potentially leading to data breaches, privilege escalation, or further attacks within the VM.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/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 the dependencies and alert you if any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one, are found.
At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the recommended fix to mitigate the risk of potential future exploits.
No, this vulnerability requires an attacker to have access to the nested VM in order to exploit it. It cannot be exploited remotely without prior access to the VM.
For more details about this vulnerability, including the specific code changes and references, you can refer to the vulnerability database entry at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1000xxx/GSD-2021-1000313.json.
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