NFSv4: Initialisation of Connection in nfs4_alloc_client()
Summary
GSD-2021-1001197: NFSv4: Initialise connection to the server in nfs4_alloc_client(). Affects Kernel versions >= 5c6e5b60aae4347223f176966455010a5715b863, < b0bfac939030181177373f549398ba94c384713d. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel package is an integral part of the Linux operating system. It provides the core functionality and acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. The Kernel package includes various components, such as device drivers, system calls, and process management, that enable the operating system to function effectively. One of the features provided by the Kernel package is NFSv4 (Network File System version 4), which allows remote file access over a network. NFSv4 relies on the nfs4_alloc_client() function to establish a connection with the server. However, a vulnerability has been identified in this function that could potentially be exploited by attackers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in nfs4_alloc_client() was introduced in version v4.8 of the Linux Kernel and has been present until version v5.13.4. The function fails to properly initialise the connection to the server, which could lead to various security issues. Although the impact and attack plausibility have not been proven, it is crucial to address this vulnerability to ensure the security and integrity of the NFSv4 functionality. Attackers may potentially exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, execute arbitrary code, or disrupt the normal operation of the system.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel package to version v5.13.4 or later. The fix for this vulnerability was implemented in commit b0bfac939030181177373f549398ba94c384713d. Updating the Kernel package to the latest version will ensure that the connection to the server is properly initialised in nfs4_alloc_client().
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can consider disabling the NFSv4 functionality or implementing additional security measures, such as firewall rules and access controls, to mitigate the potential risks associated with this vulnerability. However, it is strongly advised to apply the official fix by updating the Kernel package to the latest version.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vulnerability in nfs4_alloc_client() poses potential security risks to systems running the affected versions of the Linux Kernel package. It is crucial to update the Kernel package to version v5.13.4 or later to ensure the proper initialisation of the connection to the server in NFSv4. Users can also consider implementing additional security measures or disabling the NFSv4 functionality as a temporary workaround. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability could range from unauthorized access to sensitive data to the execution of arbitrary code and disruption of system operations.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities without requiring access to the code or installation.
Yes, users can consider disabling the NFSv4 functionality or implementing additional security measures, such as firewall rules and access controls, to mitigate the potential risks associated with this vulnerability. However, it is strongly advised to apply the official fix by updating the Kernel package to the latest version.
You can refer to the commit b0bfac939030181177373f549398ba94c384713d in the Linux Kernel repository for more information about the fix for this vulnerability.
The vulnerability was discovered by the Cloud Security Alliance and reported in the GSD-2021-1001197 advisory.
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