Bluetooth: hci_qca: Use del_timer_sync() before freeing
Summary
GSD-2022-1003449: Bluetooth: hci_qca: Use del_timer_sync() before freeing. Affects Kernel versions >= 0ff252c1976da5d80db1377eb39b551931e61826, < db03727b4bbbbb36e6ef4cb655c670eefb6448e9. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Bluetooth package in the Linux Kernel is responsible for providing support for Bluetooth devices. It allows users to connect and communicate with various Bluetooth-enabled devices such as headphones, keyboards, and speakers. The hci_qca module is a specific component within the Bluetooth package that handles communication with Qualcomm Atheros Bluetooth chipsets. This vulnerability affects the hci_qca module and can potentially lead to security issues.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the hci_qca module arises from the lack of using del_timer_sync() before freeing resources. This can result in a use-after-free scenario, where a timer is freed while it is still in use. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15.45 or later. This update includes the necessary fix committed in db03727b4bbbbb36e6ef4cb655c670eefb6448e9. Updating the Kernel will ensure that the hci_qca module uses del_timer_sync() before freeing resources, mitigating the vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can avoid the vulnerability by refraining from using the affected Bluetooth functionality or by disabling Bluetooth altogether. However, this may not be a feasible solution for users who rely on Bluetooth for their daily operations.
Conclusion
The Bluetooth hci_qca module in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a use-after-free scenario due to the lack of using del_timer_sync() before freeing resources. This vulnerability can potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15.45 or later to fix this vulnerability. Disabling Bluetooth can serve as a temporary workaround, but it may not be a viable solution for all users. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven, but it could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your manifest file, such as package-lock.json, and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
Yes, a patch is available in Linux Kernel version v5.15.45. Updating to this version will fix the vulnerability.
Yes, disabling Bluetooth can be a temporary workaround to mitigate the vulnerability. However, this may not be a practical solution for users who rely on Bluetooth functionality.
There are no known instances of this vulnerability being exploited at the moment. However, it is still important to apply the necessary updates and patches to ensure the security of your system.
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