Data Races in tcp: Fix data-races around sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing
Summary
GSD-2022-1004781: tcp: Fix data-races around sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing. Affects Kernel versions >= 5d424d5a674f782d0659a3b66d951f412901faee, < 7e8fc428a7f680f1c4994a40e52d7f95a9a93038. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is an open-source monolithic Unix-like computer operating system kernel. It provides the core functionality for the Linux operating system. The tcp module in the Linux Kernel is responsible for handling TCP/IP networking. One of the features of the tcp module is the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing, which controls the Path MTU Discovery (PMTUD) behavior for TCP connections. PMTUD is a technique used to determine the maximum transmission unit (MTU) size of a network path. This vulnerability affects the tcp module in the Linux Kernel and can lead to data races around the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing feature.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from data-races in the tcp module of the Linux Kernel related to the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing feature. Data races occur when multiple threads or processes access shared data concurrently without proper synchronization. In this case, the data-races can result in inconsistent or incorrect behavior of the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing feature, potentially leading to network connectivity issues or security vulnerabilities. The vulnerability was introduced in version v2.6.17 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v4.19.254.
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 data races in the tcp module of the Linux Kernel related to the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing feature can lead to network connectivity issues or potential security vulnerabilities. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.19.254 or later to fix this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the specific usage of the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing feature. In general, it can lead to network connectivity issues or potential security vulnerabilities.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
At the time of this report, there is no known exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is always recommended to apply security patches and updates to mitigate potential risks.
The exact exploitability of this vulnerability depends on various factors, including the specific network configuration and usage of the sysctl_tcp_mtu_probing feature. It is advisable to apply the recommended fix to ensure the system is protected.
The recommended solution is to update the Linux Kernel to the fixed version. However, if updating the kernel is not feasible, you can consider implementing additional network-level security measures and best practices to mitigate potential risks.
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