Vulnerability in Kernel: i2c: xiic: fix reference leak when pm_runtime_get_sync fails

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

31/05/2021

Disclosed on

N/A

Severity

No i

Fix available

Unrated

Severity

Not published

CVSS Score

GSD-2021-1000352: i2c: xiic: fix reference leak when pm_runtime_get_sync fails. Affects Kernel versions >= 10b17004a74c384c6f410af355b0d6d7a168f613, < c977426db644ba476938125597947979e8aba725. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that manages communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities and drivers for various devices, including the i2c subsystem. The i2c subsystem enables communication between integrated circuits using a two-wire interface. One of the drivers in the i2c subsystem is xiic. This driver is responsible for managing the communication protocol for I2C devices. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the xiic driver that can lead to a reference leak when the pm_runtime_get_sync function fails.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in the xiic driver occurs when the pm_runtime_get_sync function fails. This function is used to manage the power state of the device and ensure it is in sync with the system's power management. When the function fails, it can result in a reference leak, which can lead to resource exhaustion and potential denial-of-service attacks. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by repeatedly triggering the failure of the pm_runtime_get_sync function, causing the system to exhaust its resources and become unresponsive. This vulnerability was introduced in version v5.6 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.10.37.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to update the Linux Kernel to the fixed version to mitigate the risk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the vulnerability in the xiic driver of the Kernel can result in a reference leak when the pm_runtime_get_sync function fails. This can lead to resource exhaustion and potential denial-of-service attacks. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.10.37 or later to fix this vulnerability and ensure the system's security. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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