Vulnerability in Kernel: x86/kvm: Disable kvmclock on all CPUs on shutdown
Summary
GSD-2021-1000823: x86/kvm: Disable kvmclock on all CPUs on shutdown. Affects Kernel versions < 1df2dc09926f61319116c80ee85701df33577d70. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a critical 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 x86/kvm module within the Kernel is responsible for virtualization support on x86-based systems, allowing multiple virtual machines to run concurrently on a single physical machine. One of the features provided by x86/kvm is kvmclock, which provides a virtual clock to guest operating systems running on virtual machines. This vulnerability specifically affects the kvmclock functionality when shutting down the system.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in x86/kvm allows an attacker to exploit the kvmclock functionality during system shutdown. By manipulating the kvmclock on all CPUs, the attacker can potentially disrupt the shutdown process and cause a denial-of-service condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet. It is important to note that this vulnerability requires local access to the system and does not directly lead to remote code execution or privilege escalation.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in x86/kvm that allows an attacker to manipulate the kvmclock during system shutdown can potentially lead to a denial-of-service condition. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.12.10 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability is a potential denial-of-service condition during system shutdown. However, the actual impact and attack plausibility have not been proven yet.
No, this vulnerability requires local access to the system and cannot be exploited remotely.
No, this vulnerability does not directly lead to privilege escalation.
This vulnerability is present in the Linux Kernel version prior to v5.12.10.
Users can obtain the updated Linux Kernel from the official Linux Kernel repository or through their respective Linux distribution's package management system.
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