Data Race Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1001040: perf: Fix data race between pin_count increment/decrement. Affects Kernel versions >= fe4b04fa31a6dcf4358aa84cf81e5a7fd079469b, < df4c7e3b10957369b2180a49c25fdff73bee139b. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system. It provides essential functionality, such as managing system resources, handling hardware devices, and facilitating communication between software and hardware. The kernel is responsible for maintaining the security, stability, and performance of the entire system. However, it is susceptible to various vulnerabilities that can compromise these aspects.
One such vulnerability is a data race between pin_count increment/decrement in the kernel's performance monitoring subsystem. This vulnerability can lead to unexpected behavior, including crashes, data corruption, and privilege escalation.
Vulnerability Detail
The data race vulnerability in the Linux Kernel arises due to a lack of proper synchronization between the pin_count increment and decrement operations in the performance monitoring subsystem. This can result in concurrent access to shared resources, leading to race conditions. Attackers may exploit this vulnerability to manipulate the pin_count value and potentially gain unauthorized access or disrupt the system's normal operation.
The vulnerability was introduced in version v2.6.39 of the Linux Kernel and has been present until version v5.12.11. It was fixed by commit df4c7e3b10957369b2180a49c25fdff73bee139b.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can disable the affected functionality related to the performance monitoring subsystem if it is not essential for their system's operation. This can be achieved by modifying the kernel configuration or disabling relevant kernel modules. However, it is recommended to apply the official fix as soon as possible to ensure the system's security and stability.
Conclusion
The data race vulnerability in the Linux Kernel's performance monitoring subsystem can have severe consequences, including system crashes, data corruption, and potential privilege escalation attacks. It is crucial to update the kernel to version v5.12.11 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Users can also check if their system is affected using Vulert's playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) without any signup or installation. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The data race vulnerability in the Linux Kernel can lead to various consequences, including system crashes, data corruption, and potential privilege escalation attacks.
By manipulating the pin_count value through concurrent access, an attacker may gain unauthorized access to sensitive resources or disrupt the normal operation of the system.
The vulnerability was introduced in version v2.6.39 and persisted until version v5.12.11. Systems running these versions are potentially vulnerable.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v5.12.11. Users are advised to update their kernel to this version or a later one.
Yes, as a temporary workaround, users can disable the functionality related to the performance monitoring subsystem if it is not essential for their system's operation. However, applying the official fix is recommended.
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