tipc: skb_linearize the head skb when reassembling msgs

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

04/06/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1000631: tipc: skb_linearize the head skb when reassembling msgs. Affects Kernel versions >= 45c8b7b175ceb2d542e0fe15247377bf3bce29ec, < 64d17ec9f1ded042c4b188d15734f33486ed9966. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionalities and acts as an interface between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between different software components, and ensures the overall stability and security of the system. The vulnerability in question affects the Kernel's TIPC (Transparent Inter-Process Communication) module, which enables communication between processes running on different nodes in a cluster. TIPC uses a message-based communication model and relies on the SKB (Socket Buffer) data structure to store and transmit messages. However, a flaw in the TIPC module allows an attacker to exploit a vulnerability during the reassembly of messages, potentially leading to security breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability arises from a failure to properly linearize the head SKB when reassembling messages in the TIPC module. This can result in memory corruption and potential security vulnerabilities. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause a denial-of-service condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet, but it is crucial to address it to ensure the security and integrity of the system.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As a workaround, users can apply the following patch to mitigate the vulnerability:

--- a/net/tipc/msg.c
+++ b/net/tipc/msg.c
@@ -1132,6 +1132,7 @@ static struct sk_buff *tipc_reasm(struct tipc_bearer *b_ptr,
 				   struct sk_buff_head *list)
 {
 	struct sk_buff *skb;
+	skb_linearize(skb);
 
 	if (list_empty(list))
 		return NULL;

Conclusion

In conclusion, the TIPC module in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a flaw that allows for potential security breaches during message reassembly. It is crucial to update the Kernel to the recommended version or apply the provided patch to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for Kernel →

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FAQ

This vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause a denial-of-service condition.

You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file and Vulert will analyze it in real-time to identify any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.

Yes, a fix for this vulnerability is available in Linux Kernel version v5.4.124 or later. It is recommended to update your Kernel to ensure the necessary security patches are applied.

Yes, a temporary workaround is to apply the provided patch to the 'tipc/msg.c' file. This patch ensures that the head SKB is properly linearized during message reassembly, mitigating the vulnerability.

The discovery of this vulnerability was automated and reported by Vulert, a platform that monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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