Vulnerability in Kernel: seq_file Buffer Allocation

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

03/08/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1001182: seq_file: disallow extremely large seq buffer allocations. Affects Kernel versions >= 058504edd02667eef8fac9be27ab3ea74332e9b4, < 71de462034c69525a5049fbdf3903c5833cbce04. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and facilitating communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functions and services to ensure the proper functioning of the system. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the Kernel related to seq_file buffer allocation.

Vulnerability Detail

The seq_file vulnerability allows for the allocation of extremely large seq buffers, which can lead to various security issues. This vulnerability was introduced in version v3.16 of the Linux Kernel and has been present until version v5.13.4. Attackers could potentially exploit this vulnerability to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. 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. It is advised to apply the fix by updating the Kernel to the recommended version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a vulnerability has been identified in the Kernel related to seq_file buffer allocation. It is recommended to update the Kernel to version v5.13.4 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software.

seq_file is a file interface provided by the Kernel that allows sequential access to data. It is commonly used for reading and writing data from kernel space to user space.

This vulnerability could potentially lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.

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.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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