mtd: Require Write Permissions for Locking and Badblock IOCTLs

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-2021-1000484: mtd: require write permissions for locking and badblock ioctls. Affects Kernel versions >= 583d42400532fbd6228b0254d7c732b771e4750d, < 9625b00cac6630479c0ff4b9fafa88bee636e1f0. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Kernel package in the Linux ecosystem is responsible for managing the core functionality of the operating system. It provides essential services and functions to enable the proper functioning of hardware, software, and user applications. The Memory Technology Device (MTD) subsystem within the Kernel handles the management of flash memory devices. It allows for the abstraction of flash devices and provides a uniform interface for accessing and manipulating them. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the MTD subsystem that could potentially lead to security issues.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in the MTD subsystem arises from the lack of write permissions required for locking and badblock IOCTLs. These IOCTLs are used to perform operations such as locking a flash device to prevent concurrent access and marking bad blocks on the device. Without the proper write permissions, an attacker with access to the affected IOCTLs could potentially bypass intended restrictions and perform unauthorized actions on the flash memory device. The impact of this vulnerability could range from data corruption to unauthorized access and manipulation of data stored on the flash device.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

If updating the Kernel is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround can be implemented by manually enforcing the required write permissions for locking and badblock IOCTLs. This can be achieved by modifying the access control settings for the affected IOCTLs to only allow write access. The specific steps to implement this workaround may vary depending on the system configuration and setup. It is recommended to consult the official documentation or seek assistance from the Kernel community for guidance on implementing this workaround.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in the MTD subsystem of the Linux Kernel, which allows unauthorized access and manipulation of flash memory devices, can be mitigated by updating the Kernel to version v4.9.269 or later. Alternatively, a temporary workaround can be implemented by manually enforcing the necessary write permissions. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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