Vulnerability in Kernel: sctp: break out if skb_header_pointer returns NULL in sctp_rcv_ootb
Summary
GSD-2021-1001721: sctp: break out if skb_header_pointer returns NULL in sctp_rcv_ootb. Affects Kernel versions >= 3acb50c18d8d6650f10919464ade4dcdaf41d62f, < 8180611c238e11676612eb2a9828b1c7a3a4d77b. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a fundamental component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and facilitating communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The vulnerability in question affects the Kernel's Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) implementation. SCTP is a transport layer protocol that offers reliable, message-oriented communication between hosts. This vulnerability specifically impacts the sctp_rcv_ootb function, which handles out-of-the-blue (OOTB) packets. OOTB packets are unexpected packets that arrive at the receiver's end. The vulnerability arises when the skb_header_pointer function returns NULL, leading to a potential security issue.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises in the sctp_rcv_ootb function of the Kernel's SCTP implementation. When an OOTB packet is received, the function calls the skb_header_pointer function to retrieve the packet's header. However, if skb_header_pointer returns NULL, the function fails to handle this scenario correctly and continues execution. This can result in various security implications, although the exact impact and attack vectors have not been proven. It is important to note that this vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v5.14.10 by commit 8180611c238e11676612eb2a9828b1c7a3a4d77b. The vulnerability was introduced in version v4.8 by commit 3acb50c18d8d6650f10919464ade4dcdaf41d62f.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
No workaround has been provided for this vulnerability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vulnerability in the Kernel's SCTP implementation can potentially lead to security issues when handling OOTB packets. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.14.10 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The exact impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven. However, it has the potential to be exploited for security purposes, which could lead to unauthorized access, denial of service, or other malicious activities.
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.
Yes, a patch has been released to fix this vulnerability. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.14.10 or later to apply the patch.
Unfortunately, no specific workaround has been provided for this vulnerability. The recommended approach is to update the Kernel to the fixed version.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the official GitHub repository of the Cloud Security Alliance's GSD Database. The specific vulnerability details can be accessed using the following link: https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1001xxx/GSD-2021-1001721.json
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