Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: wq: handle VM suspension in stall detection

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

30/06/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1000870: wq: handle VM suspension in stall detection. Affects Kernel versions < 50316635e644a0b9e62d3263fb4e8be2104605b6. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Linux Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface between hardware and software. It is widely used in various devices, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems. The wq (workqueue) subsystem in the Linux Kernel is responsible for managing and executing work items asynchronously. It allows tasks to be scheduled and executed in the background, improving system performance and responsiveness. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the wq subsystem that can be exploited to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition. This vulnerability affects Linux Kernel versions prior to v4.19.195.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in the wq subsystem of the Linux Kernel allows an attacker to trigger a DoS condition by exploiting a flaw in the handling of VM (Virtual Machine) suspension during stall detection. When a VM is suspended, the wq subsystem may not properly handle the suspension, leading to a stall condition. This can result in a significant performance degradation or even a complete system freeze. An attacker with local access to a vulnerable system can exploit this vulnerability to disrupt normal system operation and potentially cause a DoS condition. It is important to note that the impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not yet been proven.

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

In conclusion, a vulnerability has been discovered in the wq subsystem of the Linux Kernel that can be exploited to cause a DoS condition. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to the latest version to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The Linux Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface between hardware and software.

The wq (workqueue) subsystem in the Linux Kernel is responsible for managing and executing work items asynchronously. It allows tasks to be scheduled and executed in the background, improving system performance and responsiveness.

A DoS (Denial of Service) condition occurs when a system or network resource becomes unavailable or unresponsive, rendering it unable to fulfill legitimate requests. In the context of this vulnerability, an attacker can exploit the flaw in the wq subsystem to cause a DoS condition, potentially disrupting normal system operation.

No, this vulnerability requires local access to a vulnerable system in order to be exploited.

No, the impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not yet been proven.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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