Vulnerability in Kernel: cfg80211_leave_ocb not called when switching away from OCB
Summary
GSD-2021-1001093: cfg80211: call cfg80211_leave_ocb when switching away from OCB. Affects Kernel versions < c49b86ba5a25541531c501c4fa3c6a53bf8160ff. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. It provides essential functionalities, such as device drivers, memory management, and process scheduling. The cfg80211 module within the Kernel is responsible for managing wireless LAN configuration. One of its features is the OCB (Outside the Context of a BSS) mode, which allows devices to communicate directly without the need for an access point. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the cfg80211 module that prevents the proper handling of switching away from OCB mode.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the failure to call cfg80211_leave_ocb when switching away from OCB mode. This omission can lead to various security issues, although the exact impact and attack vectors have not been confirmed. Attackers may potentially exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access, perform denial-of-service attacks, or execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability has been addressed in the Linux Kernel version v4.4.274 through the commit c49b86ba5a25541531c501c4fa3c6a53bf8160ff.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid switching away from OCB mode until the Kernel is updated. This can help mitigate the potential risks associated with the vulnerability. However, it is strongly advised to apply the official fix as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the Kernel's cfg80211 module, which fails to call cfg80211_leave_ocb when switching away from OCB mode, poses potential security risks. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.4.274 or later to mitigate these risks. Applying the official fix is highly recommended. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. It provides essential functionalities, such as device drivers, memory management, and process scheduling.
cfg80211 is a module within the Kernel that manages wireless LAN configuration. It provides various features and functionalities related to wireless networking.
OCB (Outside the Context of a BSS) mode is a feature of cfg80211 that allows devices to communicate directly without the need for an access point. It enables peer-to-peer connections between devices.
The vulnerability can potentially be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, perform denial-of-service attacks, or execute arbitrary code. However, the exact impact and attack vectors have not been confirmed.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.4.274 or later. Detailed instructions on how to update the Kernel can be found in the Kernel documentation.
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