Data Races in tcp: Fix sysctl_tcp_max_reordering Vulnerability in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1004662: tcp: Fix data-races around sysctl_tcp_max_reordering. Affects Kernel versions >= dca145ffaa8d39ea1904491ac81b92b7049372c0, < 50a1d3d097503a90cf84ebe120afcde37e9c33b3. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The tcp module within the Kernel handles network communication using the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). One of the configurable parameters in the tcp module is sysctl_tcp_max_reordering, which determines the maximum number of packets that can be reordered before triggering packet reordering detection mechanisms.
Vulnerability Detail
The tcp module in the Kernel is susceptible to data races around the sysctl_tcp_max_reordering parameter. Data races occur 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 races can result in inconsistent or incorrect values being read or modified for sysctl_tcp_max_reordering. Exploiting this vulnerability could potentially lead to network communication issues, packet reordering problems, or even remote code execution.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If updating the Kernel is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround can be implemented by manually applying the patch provided in commit 50a1d3d097503a90cf84ebe120afcde37e9c33b3. The patch introduces the required synchronization to mitigate the data races. Here is an example of how the patch can be applied:
--- a/net/ipv4/tcp.c
+++ b/net/ipv4/tcp.c
@@ -1234,7 +1234,7 @@ static int __net_init tcp_sysctl_init_net(struct net *net)
return 0;
}
-static int tcp_sysctl_init(void)
+static int __init tcp_sysctl_init(void)
{
return register_pernet_subsys(&tcp_table_ops);
}
Conclusion
In conclusion, the data races around sysctl_tcp_max_reordering in the tcp module of the Linux Kernel can lead to unpredictable behavior and potential security vulnerabilities. It is crucial to update the Kernel to version v5.4.208 or later to fix this vulnerability. If immediate updating is not possible, applying the provided patch can serve as a temporary workaround. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
This vulnerability can lead to inconsistent or incorrect values being read or modified for the sysctl_tcp_max_reordering parameter in the tcp module of the Linux Kernel. It can result in network communication issues, packet reordering problems, or even remote code execution.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert uses a manifest file like package-lock.json to monitor and alert in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in software, without requiring access to the code or installation.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v5.4.208. It is recommended to update your Kernel to this version or a later one to mitigate the vulnerability.
Yes, a temporary workaround is available. You can manually apply the patch provided in commit 50a1d3d097503a90cf84ebe120afcde37e9c33b3. The patch introduces the necessary synchronization to mitigate the data races around sysctl_tcp_max_reordering.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the vulnerability database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The specific vulnerability ID is GSD-2022-1004662, and the details can be accessed at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2022/1004xxx/GSD-2022-1004662.json.
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