ext4: Error Checking Vulnerability in Linux Kernel

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

19/10/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1001710: ext4: add error checking to ext4_ext_replay_set_iblocks(). Affects Kernel versions >= 8016e29f4362e285f0f7e38fadc61a5b7bdfdfa2, < 27e10c5d31ff1d222c7f797f1ee96d422859ba67. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing essential functionality. The ext4 filesystem is a widely used filesystem in Linux, offering improved performance and reliability compared to its predecessors. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the ext4 filesystem that could potentially be exploited by attackers.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability, identified as GSD-2021-1001710, exists in the ext4_ext_replay_set_iblocks() function of the ext4 filesystem. This function is responsible for replaying inode block mapping updates during filesystem recovery. The lack of proper error checking in this function could lead to various security issues, including potential data corruption or denial of service attacks. Attackers may be able to exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or disrupt the normal operation of the system.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As a workaround, users can consider implementing additional security measures, such as restricting access to the affected filesystem or monitoring for suspicious activity. However, applying the official fix by updating the Linux Kernel is the recommended solution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ext4 filesystem in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a security issue that could potentially lead to data corruption or denial of service attacks. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.14.10 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Additional security measures can be implemented as temporary measures, but they should not replace the official fix. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

This vulnerability could potentially lead to data corruption or denial of service attacks. Attackers may exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or disrupt the normal operation of the system.

You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file to the playground, and it will analyze the dependencies and alert you if any vulnerabilities, including this one, are found.

At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the fix as soon as possible to mitigate the risk.

Implementing additional security measures, such as restricting access to the affected filesystem or monitoring for suspicious activity, can provide some level of protection. However, these measures are not a substitute for applying the official fix by updating the Linux Kernel.

You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2021-1001710 entry of the GSD Database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The link to the specific vulnerability entry is available in the references section of this report.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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