NULL dereference vulnerability in cifs_compose_mount_options() in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1001315: cifs: prevent NULL deref in cifs_compose_mount_options(). Affects Kernel versions < f7d1fa65e74263d11f90ddd33b4d4cd905a93759. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionalities and acts as an interface between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between different software components, and ensures the overall stability and security of the system. The cifs module in the Kernel enables the mounting of remote file systems using the Common Internet File System (CIFS) protocol. This vulnerability specifically affects the cifs_compose_mount_options() function in the Kernel.
Vulnerability Detail
The cifs_compose_mount_options() function in the Kernel is vulnerable to a NULL dereference issue. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or potentially execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability occurs when the function attempts to dereference a NULL pointer, leading to a system crash or other unexpected behavior. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a complete system compromise or disruption of critical services.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If updating the Kernel is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to avoid using the cifs module or disable the affected functionality. However, this may not be a viable long-term solution as it may impact the ability to mount remote file systems using the CIFS protocol. It is strongly recommended to apply the official patch or update the Kernel as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The NULL dereference vulnerability in cifs_compose_mount_options() in the Kernel can lead to a denial-of-service condition or potential execution of arbitrary code. It is crucial to update the Kernel to the patched version or apply the official fix to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
This vulnerability could lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or potential execution of arbitrary code. It may allow an attacker to crash the system or gain unauthorized access, potentially resulting in a complete compromise of the affected system.
You can use tools like Vulert to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert analyzes package-lock.json files to identify and monitor open-source vulnerabilities in software. You can visit the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected.
A possible workaround is to avoid using the cifs module or disable the affected functionality. However, this may not be a long-term solution as it may impact the ability to mount remote file systems using the CIFS protocol. It is recommended to apply the official patch or update the Kernel to resolve the vulnerability.
The official fix for this vulnerability is to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.4.135 or later. The fix was implemented in commit f7d1fa65e74263d11f90ddd33b4d4cd905a93759.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the official Linux Kernel security advisory or by referring to the vulnerability database entry at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1001xxx/GSD-2021-1001315.json.
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