Vulnerability in Kernel: Fix error handling of scsi_host_alloc()
Summary
GSD-2021-1000849: scsi: core: Fix error handling of scsi_host_alloc(). Affects Kernel versions < 8958181c1663e24a13434448e7d6b96b5d04900a. 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 functionality and interfaces with hardware devices. It manages various aspects of system operations, including memory management, process scheduling, and device drivers. One of the key functionalities of the Kernel is handling SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) devices, which are commonly used for storage and other peripheral devices. The scsi_host_alloc() function is responsible for allocating resources for SCSI host controllers. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the error handling of this function, which could potentially lead to security issues.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the scsi_host_alloc() function of the Kernel arises from improper error handling. When an error occurs during the allocation of resources for SCSI host controllers, the function fails to handle the error properly, potentially leaving the system in an inconsistent state. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. 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 stability of the system.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As this vulnerability can be potentially serious, it is advisable to apply the recommended fix by updating the Kernel. However, if updating the Kernel is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround could be to disable or restrict access to SCSI host controllers, if not required for system functionality. This can be achieved by modifying the system configuration or using access control mechanisms to limit access to SCSI devices.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the Kernel's scsi_host_alloc() function highlights the importance of proper error handling in critical system components. To ensure the security and stability of the system, it is recommended to update the Kernel to version v4.9.273 or later, which includes the fix for this vulnerability. If immediate updating is not feasible, consider applying the suggested workaround or restricting access to SCSI host controllers. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability could range from a denial-of-service (DoS) condition to potential execution of arbitrary code with elevated privileges. However, the actual impact and attack plausibility have not been proven yet.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your manifest file (e.g., package-lock.json) 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 the Linux Kernel version v4.9.273 or later. It is recommended to update the Kernel to the latest version to address this issue.
While it is recommended to update the Kernel to fix this vulnerability, if immediate updating is not feasible, you can consider disabling or restricting access to SCSI host controllers, if they are not required for system functionality. This can help mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
You can find more information about this vulnerability, including the specific commit that fixes it, in the GSD-2021-1000849 JSON file available at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1000xxx/GSD-2021-1000849.json.
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