UAF in emac_remove in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1001409: net: qcom/emac: fix UAF in emac_remove. Affects Kernel versions >= 54e19bc74f3380d414681762ceed9f7245bc6a6e, < b1e091331920f8fbfc747dcbd16263fcd71abb2d. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionalities and interfaces 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 qcom/emac module within the Kernel is responsible for handling Ethernet controller operations on Qualcomm platforms. It allows devices to connect to networks and transfer data. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the emac_remove function of the qcom/emac module, which can lead to a use-after-free (UAF) condition.
Vulnerability Detail
The use-after-free vulnerability in the emac_remove function of the qcom/emac module can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition. This vulnerability occurs when the emac_remove function improperly handles the removal of a network device. By manipulating certain parameters, an attacker can trigger a situation where a network device is freed from memory but still accessible by other parts of the system. This can result in memory corruption, leading to unpredictable behavior, crashes, or the execution of malicious code.
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 disable the qcom/emac module or remove the affected network device from the system. This can be achieved by blacklisting the module or physically disconnecting the device. However, it is important to note that these workarounds may impact the functionality of the network device or the system's overall network connectivity.
Conclusion
The UAF vulnerability in the emac_remove function of the qcom/emac module in the Linux Kernel can have severe security implications. It is crucial to update the Kernel to the latest version or apply the provided workaround to mitigate the risk. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
This vulnerability can potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition on a system running the vulnerable Kernel version.
You can use tools like Vulert (https://vulert.com) 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 in the software.
Yes, a patch for this vulnerability is available in the Linux Kernel version v4.14.241. It is recommended to update the Kernel to this version or later to mitigate the risk.
If updating the Kernel is not immediately feasible, you can consider disabling the qcom/emac module or removing the affected network device from the system as a temporary measure. However, these workarounds may impact network functionality.
You can refer to the vulnerability details in the GSD database at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1001xxx/GSD-2021-1001409.json for more information.
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