Vulnerability in Kernel: Disallow Extremely Large seq Buffer Allocations

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

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

GSD-2021-1001413: seq_file: disallow extremely large seq buffer allocations. Affects Kernel versions >= 058504edd02667eef8fac9be27ab3ea74332e9b4, < 3c07d1335d17ae0411101024de438dbc3734e992. 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 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 vulnerability in question affects the seq_file module, which is responsible for handling sequential file access in the Kernel. This module allows users to read and iterate over large amounts of data stored in files. However, it has been discovered that extremely large seq buffer allocations can lead to security vulnerabilities.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability arises from the ability to allocate excessively large seq buffers in the seq_file module. This can result in various security issues, including buffer overflows, memory corruption, and potential privilege escalation attacks. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious request that triggers the allocation of an abnormally large buffer, leading to the compromise of the system's integrity and confidentiality. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet, but it is crucial to address it to prevent potential security breaches.

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. However, users can apply the recommended fix by updating their Linux Kernel to the latest version.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in the Kernel's seq_file module, allowing extremely large seq buffer allocations, poses potential security risks. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.14.240 or later. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionalities and acts as an interface between hardware and software.

The seq_file module in the Kernel is responsible for handling sequential file access, allowing users to read and iterate over large amounts of data stored in files.

The vulnerability can lead to security issues such as buffer overflows, memory corruption, and potential privilege escalation attacks, compromising the system's integrity and confidentiality.

To fix this vulnerability, update your Linux Kernel to version v4.14.240 or later, which disallows extremely large seq buffer allocations.

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. It is recommended to apply the fix by updating the Kernel.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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