Data Race Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1004771: tcp: Fix a data-race around sysctl_tcp_thin_linear_timeouts. Affects Kernel versions >= 36e31b0af58728071e8023cf8e20c5166b700717, < f4b0295be9a3c4260de4585fac4062e602a88ac7. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is a free and open-source monolithic Unix-like operating system kernel. It provides essential services to enable communication between hardware and software components of a computer system. The TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a core component of the Linux Kernel that facilitates reliable and ordered delivery of data packets over IP networks. However, a data race vulnerability has been identified in the TCP module, specifically related to the sysctl_tcp_thin_linear_timeouts parameter.
Vulnerability Detail
The data race vulnerability in the Linux Kernel's TCP module allows for a race condition to occur around the sysctl_tcp_thin_linear_timeouts parameter. This vulnerability can potentially lead to unexpected behavior and instability in TCP connections. An attacker may be able to exploit this vulnerability to cause denial-of-service (DoS) attacks or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability was introduced in version 2.6.34 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version 4.19.254.
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_thin_linear_timeouts parameter to mitigate the risk of exploitation. However, it is strongly advised to apply the official fix by updating the Linux Kernel to the latest version as soon as possible. Here is an example of how to disable the parameter using sysctl command:
sysctl -w net.ipv4.tcp_thin_linear_timeouts=0
Please note that this workaround may have implications on the performance and behavior of TCP connections.
Conclusion
The data race vulnerability in the Linux Kernel's TCP module poses a potential security risk and can lead to unexpected behavior in TCP connections. It is essential to update the Linux Kernel to the latest version to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The Linux Kernel is a free and open-source monolithic Unix-like operating system kernel that provides essential services to enable communication between hardware and software components of a computer system.
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a core component of the Linux Kernel that facilitates reliable and ordered delivery of data packets over IP networks.
A data race vulnerability occurs when multiple threads or processes access shared data concurrently without proper synchronization, leading to unexpected behavior and potential security risks.
The data race vulnerability in the Linux Kernel's TCP module can result in unexpected behavior and instability in TCP connections. It may also be exploited by attackers to cause denial-of-service (DoS) attacks or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version 4.19.254 or later. Regularly updating the Kernel is crucial to ensure the latest security patches and bug fixes are applied.
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