mtd: Require Write Permissions for Locking and Badblock IOCTLs

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

31/05/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1000488: mtd: require write permissions for locking and badblock ioctls. Affects Kernel versions >= 1c9f9125892a43901438bf704ada6b7019e2a884, < f4d28d8b9b0e7c4ae04214b8d7e0b0466ec6bcaf. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The mtd package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for Memory Technology Devices (MTDs). MTDs are a type of flash memory used in embedded systems. The mtd package includes various IOCTLs (Input/Output Control) that allow users to perform operations on MTD devices, such as locking and marking bad blocks. These IOCTLs are typically accessed through device files in the /dev/mtdX format.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in the mtd package allows unprivileged users to perform locking and badblock operations on MTD devices without requiring write permissions. This means that an attacker with local access to the system can manipulate the state of MTD devices, potentially leading to data corruption or denial of service. The vulnerability was introduced in version v4.4.233 of the Linux Kernel and was fixed in version v4.4.269.

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 recommended to apply the fix mentioned above.

Conclusion

The mtd package in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to unprivileged users performing locking and badblock operations on MTD devices without write permissions. This can potentially lead to data corruption or denial of service. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.4.269 or later to fix this vulnerability. If you need further support or assistance, you can reach out to DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The vulnerability allows unprivileged users to manipulate the state of MTD devices, potentially leading to data corruption or denial of service.

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 and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.

There are no known exploits for this vulnerability at the moment. However, it is always recommended to apply security patches as soon as they are available to mitigate any potential risks.

No, this vulnerability requires local access to the system in order to exploit it.

For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact info@devnack.com. They can provide assistance and guidance in fixing this vulnerability.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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