Memory Leak in uss720_probe in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1000566: misc/uss720: fix memory leak in uss720_probe. Affects Kernel versions >= 0f36163d3abefbda1b21a330b3fdf3c2dc076d94, < a3c3face38cb49932c62adcc1289914f1c742096. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. It provides essential services and manages system resources. The vulnerability in the uss720_probe function within the Kernel can lead to a memory leak. This function is responsible for handling the initialization of the USS720 USB device driver. A memory leak occurs when allocated memory is not properly released, leading to a gradual depletion of available memory resources.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a memory leak in the uss720_probe function. When the function is called, it fails to release allocated memory under certain conditions, resulting in a continuous accumulation of memory over time. This can lead to memory exhaustion, causing system instability, performance degradation, and potentially denial-of-service (DoS) scenarios. The vulnerability was introduced in version v2.6.14 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.12.9.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can unload and reload the USS720 USB device driver periodically to release the accumulated memory. This can be achieved by executing the following commands:
modprobe -r uss720
modprobe uss720
However, it is important to note that this workaround only provides a temporary solution and does not address the root cause of the vulnerability. Updating to the fixed version of the Kernel is the recommended long-term solution.
Conclusion
The memory leak vulnerability in the uss720_probe function of the Kernel can lead to memory exhaustion and system instability. It is recommended to update to version v5.12.9 or later of the Linux Kernel to fix the vulnerability. Users can also use the Vulert Playground at https://vulert.com/scanner to check if their system is affected and receive real-time alerts. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to memory exhaustion, causing system instability, performance degradation, and potential denial-of-service (DoS) scenarios.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file to the playground, and it will analyze and alert you in real-time if the vulnerability is present.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in version v5.12.9 of the Linux Kernel. It is recommended to update to this version or a later one to apply the patch.
Yes, as a temporary workaround, you can periodically unload and reload the USS720 USB device driver. However, this is not a permanent solution, and updating to the fixed version of the Kernel is highly recommended.
At the time of this report, there are no known exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the fix as soon as possible to prevent any potential exploitation.
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