Unexported xfrm4_protocol_init() in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1003708: net: xfrm: unexport __init-annotated xfrm4_protocol_init(). Affects Kernel versions >= 2f32b51b609faea1e40bb8c5bd305f1351740936, < ef6d2354de238b065d8799c80da4be9a6af18e39. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel package is a fundamental component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface between hardware and software. It includes various subsystems, including networking. The xfrm4_protocol_init() function is a part of the networking subsystem and is responsible for initializing the xfrm4 protocol. This protocol is used for IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) operations, such as encryption and authentication. The vulnerability lies in the fact that the __init-annotated xfrm4_protocol_init() function is unexported, which means it is not intended to be accessed by external modules or components.
Vulnerability Detail
The unexported __init-annotated xfrm4_protocol_init() function in the Kernel's networking subsystem poses a potential security vulnerability. While the actual impact and attack plausibility have not been proven, the unexported nature of this function suggests that it may be accessed or manipulated by unauthorized entities. This could potentially lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other security compromises. The vulnerability was introduced in version v3.15 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.4.198.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As this vulnerability is fixed in the latest version of the Linux Kernel, there is no specific workaround available. It is strongly advised to update to the fixed version as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The unexported xfrm4_protocol_init() function in the Kernel's networking subsystem poses a potential security vulnerability. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.4.198 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. 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 has the potential to allow unauthorized access, data breaches, or other security compromises.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in version v5.4.198 of the Linux Kernel. It is recommended to update to this version or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
As this vulnerability is fixed in the latest version of the Linux Kernel, there are no specific temporary measures available. It is recommended to update to the fixed version as soon as possible.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2022-1003708 entry of the GSD Database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The entry can be accessed at: https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2022/1003xxx/GSD-2022-1003708.json
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