Refcount Leak in icp_opal_init() in powerpc/xics
Summary
GSD-2022-1003349: powerpc/xics: fix refcount leak in icp_opal_init(). Affects Kernel versions < df802880a7f9cd96b921b00639b00871f18a9a57. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The powerpc/xics package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for interrupt controller hardware on PowerPC systems. It is responsible for managing interrupts and their delivery to the appropriate processors. The icp_opal_init() function in powerpc/xics is used to initialize the interrupt controller on systems using the OPAL firmware. This function is vulnerable to a refcount leak, which can lead to resource exhaustion and potential denial-of-service attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in icp_opal_init() arises from a failure to properly release a reference count when an error occurs during initialization. This can result in a refcount leak, where the reference count is not decremented and the associated resources are not properly freed. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by repeatedly triggering the error condition, leading to resource exhaustion and potentially causing the system to become unresponsive. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not yet been proven.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. Users are advised to update their Linux Kernel to the fixed version.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in icp_opal_init() in powerpc/xics can result in a refcount leak, leading to potential resource exhaustion and denial-of-service attacks. Users are advised to update their Linux Kernel to version v5.15.46 or a later version that includes the fix. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
powerpc/xics is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for interrupt controller hardware on PowerPC systems.
icp_opal_init() is used to initialize the interrupt controller on systems using the OPAL firmware.
A refcount leak occurs when a reference count is not properly decremented, leading to resource leaks and potential resource exhaustion.
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven, but it could potentially lead to resource exhaustion and denial-of-service attacks.
To fix this vulnerability, users should update their Linux Kernel to version v5.15.46 or a later version that includes the fix.
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