Vulnerability in powerpc/rtas package: Keep MSR[RI] set when calling RTAS
Summary
GSD-2022-1003351: powerpc/rtas: Keep MSR[RI] set when calling RTAS. Affects Kernel versions < 5ca40fcf0da0ce2b5bc44e7d8b036535955f2e3d. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The powerpc/rtas package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for the PowerPC architecture's Run-Time Abstraction Services (RTAS). RTAS is a firmware interface used by PowerPC-based systems to interact with various hardware components. It allows the kernel to make calls to the firmware for tasks such as power management, device configuration, and system diagnostics. The vulnerability in this package involves the manipulation of the MSR[RI] (Machine State Register - Recoverable Interrupt) when calling RTAS.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a failure to maintain the MSR[RI] set when making RTAS calls. The MSR[RI] is a critical register that controls the handling of recoverable interrupts. By not preserving the MSR[RI] state, an attacker could potentially disrupt the interrupt handling mechanism, leading to a denial-of-service condition or other security vulnerabilities. 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
No workaround has been provided for this vulnerability.
Conclusion
The powerpc/rtas package in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a flaw that allows the MSR[RI] register to be improperly handled when making RTAS calls. This vulnerability can potentially lead to a denial-of-service condition or other security issues. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15.46 or newer to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The powerpc/rtas package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for the PowerPC architecture's Run-Time Abstraction Services (RTAS).
The MSR[RI] (Machine State Register - Recoverable Interrupt) is a critical register that controls the handling of recoverable interrupts in the PowerPC architecture.
The vulnerability could lead to a denial-of-service condition or other security vulnerabilities by disrupting the interrupt handling mechanism.
No, the impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
To fix the vulnerability, users should update their Linux Kernel to version v5.15.46 or any subsequent version that includes the fix.
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