Vulnerability in Kernel: pid Reference Initialization

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

25/06/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1000741: pid: take a reference when initializing cad_pid. Affects Kernel versions >= 9ec52099e4b8678a60e9f93e41ad87885d64f3e6, < d106f05432e60f9f62d456ef017687f5c73cb414. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Kernel is a fundamental component of the Linux operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The vulnerability in question pertains to the initialization of the cad_pid reference in the Kernel. This reference is used to track the process ID (PID) of a process that is being debugged. The vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the cad_pid reference, potentially leading to unauthorized access or privilege escalation.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability arises from the failure to take a reference when initializing the cad_pid in the Kernel. This oversight allows an attacker to modify the cad_pid reference, which can have various security implications. For example, an attacker could manipulate the reference to gain unauthorized access to a process being debugged or escalate their privileges within the system. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven, but it is essential to address it to mitigate potential risks.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As a workaround, users can apply the patch provided in commit d106f05432e60f9f62d456ef017687f5c73cb414 manually. The patch modifies the initialization process of the cad_pid reference to ensure it is properly referenced and protected against unauthorized modifications. Here is an example of the patch:

-    cad_pid = task_pid(current);
+    cad_pid = get_pid(task_pid(current));

Conclusion

In conclusion, the vulnerability in the Kernel related to the initialization of the cad_pid reference can potentially lead to unauthorized access or privilege escalation. It is crucial to update the Kernel to the recommended version or apply the provided patch to mitigate these risks. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for Kernel →

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FAQ

The Kernel is a core component of the Linux operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software.

The cad_pid reference is used to track the process ID (PID) of a process that is being debugged.

The vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the cad_pid reference, potentially leading to unauthorized access or privilege escalation.

No, the impact and attack plausibility have not been proven. However, it is crucial to address this vulnerability to mitigate potential risks.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.19.194 or later. This fix ensures that the cad_pid reference is properly initialized, preventing unauthorized manipulation.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for Kernel.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →

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