Vulnerability in Kernel package: staging: r8188eu: prevent ->Ssid overflow in rtw_wx_set_scan()
Summary
GSD-2022-1003007: staging: r8188eu: prevent ->Ssid overflow in rtw_wx_set_scan(). Affects Kernel versions >= 2b42bd58b32155a1be4dd78991845dec05aaef9e, < c4bd6b72df4f01aa866ceb298466d6d07a6bd525. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel package is a critical component of the Linux operating system that provides the core functionality and interfaces with hardware devices. It is responsible for managing system resources, including memory, processes, and input/output operations. The staging subsystem within the Kernel package contains drivers that are still under development or do not meet the quality standards for inclusion in the mainline Kernel. One such driver is r8188eu, which provides support for Realtek RTL8188EU wireless devices. The rtw_wx_set_scan() function in this driver is vulnerable to a potential buffer overflow when handling the SSID (Service Set Identifier) during a scan operation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the r8188eu driver's rtw_wx_set_scan() function allows an attacker to trigger a buffer overflow by providing a maliciously crafted SSID. This can lead to memory corruption and potentially enable the attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the system. The vulnerability was introduced in version v5.15 of the Linux Kernel and was fixed in version v5.17.14. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can disable the r8188eu driver or remove the affected wireless device from their system. This can be done by blacklisting the driver module or physically disconnecting the device. However, these workarounds may result in the loss of wireless connectivity for affected devices.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the r8188eu driver's rtw_wx_set_scan() function poses a potential security risk to systems running the affected version of the Linux Kernel. It is recommended to update the Kernel to version v5.17.14 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Users can also consider workarounds such as disabling the driver or removing the affected wireless device, but these may result in the loss of wireless connectivity. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the attacker's intentions and the system's configuration. It could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the system.
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.
At the time of this report, there is no known exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is always recommended to apply security patches and updates as soon as they become available.
While updating the Kernel to the fixed version is the recommended solution, you can mitigate the risk by disabling the r8188eu driver or removing the affected wireless device from your system. However, this may result in the loss of wireless connectivity.
There may be alternative drivers available for the Realtek RTL8188EU wireless devices. You can check the official Linux Kernel documentation or community forums for information on alternative drivers or patches that address this vulnerability.
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