Data Race Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1004350: tcp: Fix a data-race around sysctl_tcp_probe_threshold. Affects Kernel versions >= 6b58e0a5f32dedb609438bb9c9c82aa6e23381f2, < f524c3e7f6cdad66b3b6a912cef47b656f8b0de3. 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 facilitating communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The vulnerability identified in this report affects the TCP subsystem of the Linux Kernel.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the TCP subsystem of the Linux Kernel is related to a data race around the sysctl_tcp_probe_threshold. A data race occurs when multiple threads or processes access shared data concurrently without proper synchronization, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential security vulnerabilities. In this case, the data race can be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate the sysctl_tcp_probe_threshold value, potentially impacting the performance and stability of TCP connections.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can manually apply the patch provided in commit f524c3e7f6cdad66b3b6a912cef47b656f8b0de3 to their Linux Kernel version. The patch modifies the affected code to address the data race issue. Here is an example of the patch:
- // Original code with data race
- sysctl_tcp_probe_threshold = value;
+ // Patched code without data race
+ spin_lock(&tcp_probe_threshold_lock);
+ sysctl_tcp_probe_threshold = value;
+ spin_unlock(&tcp_probe_threshold_lock);
Conclusion
In conclusion, the data race vulnerability in the TCP subsystem of the Linux Kernel can be mitigated by updating to version v5.15.58 or later. Alternatively, users can apply the provided patch as a temporary workaround. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
A data race is a condition that occurs when multiple threads or processes access shared data concurrently without proper synchronization. It can lead to unpredictable behavior, including crashes, incorrect results, and security vulnerabilities.
This vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate the sysctl_tcp_probe_threshold value, potentially impacting the performance and stability of TCP connections.
You can use tools like Vulert (https://vulert.com) to check if your Linux Kernel version is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert provides real-time monitoring and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities without requiring access to the code or installation.
Yes, users can manually apply the provided patch to their Linux Kernel version as a temporary workaround until they can update to the latest version.
You can refer to the commit f524c3e7f6cdad66b3b6a912cef47b656f8b0de3 in the Linux Kernel repository for more details about the fix.
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