Memory Leak Vulnerability in amt Package
Summary
GSD-2022-1002979: amt: fix possible memory leak in amt_rcv(). Affects Kernel versions >= cbc21dc1cfe949e37b2a54c71511579f1899e8d4, < 60d9c020c69977e138727b3577bc6a0458325e9c. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The amt package is a component of the Linux Kernel, which is responsible for managing Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) features. AMT allows remote management and control of Intel-based systems, providing capabilities such as remote power control, hardware inventory, and remote console access. The amt_rcv() function within the package is responsible for receiving data from the network. However, a memory leak vulnerability has been identified in this function, which could lead to the exhaustion of system resources and potential denial-of-service attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The memory leak vulnerability in amt_rcv() allows an attacker to repeatedly send specially crafted network packets, causing the function to allocate memory resources that are not properly freed. This can result in a gradual depletion of available memory, leading to system instability or even crashes. Although the impact and attack plausibility have not been proven, it is crucial to address this vulnerability to ensure the stability and security of systems utilizing the amt package.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can apply a temporary fix by implementing a code modification in the amt_rcv() function. The following code snippet demonstrates the fix:
void amt_rcv()
{
// Existing code
...
// Fix for memory leak
if (packet_is_malicious()) {
kfree(data);
return;
}
// Existing code
...
}
Conclusion
The memory leak vulnerability in the amt package's amt_rcv() function can lead to memory exhaustion and potential system instability. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.17.15 or later to fix this vulnerability. Alternatively, users can apply the provided workaround until the update is applied. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to memory exhaustion, potentially causing system instability or crashes.
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted network packets to the affected system, triggering the memory leak in the amt_rcv() function.
No evidence of active exploitation has been reported at the time of this vulnerability disclosure.
No, the vulnerability was introduced in version v5.16 and is fixed in version v5.17.15. Users should ensure they are running a patched version to mitigate the risk.
Updating the Linux Kernel is the recommended solution. However, if it is not feasible, users can apply the provided workaround code modification to mitigate the vulnerability temporarily.
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