Memory Leak in net: caif: fix memory leak in ldisc_open
Summary
GSD-2021-1001125: net: caif: fix memory leak in ldisc_open. Affects Kernel versions < 18ed1789bbce54f34367877344e35d9bb877f8f4. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The net package in the Linux Kernel is responsible for handling network-related operations. It includes various protocols and drivers for network communication. One of the components in this package is caif, which stands for 'CAIF (Common Air Interface Framework) protocol'. The caif component provides a framework for implementing CAIF-based protocols in the Linux Kernel. The ldisc_open function in caif is responsible for opening a line discipline, which is a layer between the network interface and the user space. This function has a memory leak vulnerability that can lead to resource exhaustion and potential system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the ldisc_open function of the caif component in the net package allows an attacker to trigger a memory leak. When a line discipline is opened, memory is allocated for its data structure. However, if an error occurs during the opening process, the allocated memory is not properly freed, resulting in a memory leak. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to exhaust system resources, potentially leading to a denial-of-service condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
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
The net package in the Linux Kernel contains a memory leak vulnerability in the ldisc_open function of the caif component. This vulnerability can be exploited to exhaust system resources and potentially cause system instability. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.10.47 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The net package in the Linux Kernel is responsible for handling network-related operations, including protocols and drivers for network communication.
Caif stands for 'CAIF (Common Air Interface Framework) protocol'. It provides a framework for implementing CAIF-based protocols in the Linux Kernel.
The ldisc_open function in caif is responsible for opening a line discipline, which is a layer between the network interface and the user space.
A memory leak vulnerability occurs when allocated memory is not properly freed, leading to a gradual loss of available memory and potential resource exhaustion.
The impact of this vulnerability can include resource exhaustion and potential system instability, depending on the extent of the memory leak and the attacker's ability to exploit it.
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