Data Race Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1004673: tcp: Fix a data-race around sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat. Affects Kernel versions >= c9bee3b7fdecb0c1d070c7b54113b3bdfb9a3d36, < e9362a993886613ef0284c2a4911c6017c97d803. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface for applications to interact with the hardware. It is a critical piece of software that enables the functioning of various devices and services on Linux-based systems. The vulnerability identified in this report pertains to the TCP module of the Linux Kernel.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the TCP module of the Linux Kernel involves a data race around the sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat parameter. 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 result in incorrect handling of the sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat parameter, potentially leading to system instability or security breaches. The vulnerability was introduced in version v3.12 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.4.208.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable or modify the sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat parameter to mitigate the risk of the data race. This can be done by modifying the kernel configuration or using sysctl commands. However, it is strongly recommended to apply the official fix by updating to the latest version of the Linux Kernel as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the data race vulnerability in the TCP module of the Linux Kernel can pose a risk to system stability and security. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to the fixed version or apply the recommended workaround to mitigate the vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface for applications to interact with the hardware.
A data race occurs when multiple threads or processes access shared data concurrently without proper synchronization, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential security vulnerabilities.
sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat is a parameter in the TCP module of the Linux Kernel that determines the threshold for sending unsent data.
The data race vulnerability in the TCP module of the Linux Kernel can result in incorrect handling of the sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat parameter, potentially leading to system instability or security breaches.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.4.208 or later. Alternatively, users can apply a temporary workaround by disabling or modifying the sysctl_tcp_notsent_lowat parameter.
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