KVM: x86: Fix stack-out-of-bounds memory access from ioapic_write_indirect() in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1001730: KVM: x86: Fix stack-out-of-bounds memory access from ioapic_write_indirect(). Affects Kernel versions >= 7ee30bc132c683d06a6d9e360e39e483e3990708, < 99a9e9b80f19fc63be005a33d76211dd23114792. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a fundamental component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionalities and interfaces between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between processes, and handles device drivers. The Kernel is responsible for the overall stability and security of the operating system. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the Kernel that could potentially lead to a stack-out-of-bounds memory access when executing the ioapic_write_indirect() function.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a stack-out-of-bounds memory access in the ioapic_write_indirect() function within the x86 implementation of the Kernel's KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) subsystem. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to gain unauthorized access or execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The issue was introduced in version v5.5 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.14.10. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet, but it is crucial to address it to ensure the security of the system.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.14.10 or later. This update includes the necessary patch to address the stack-out-of-bounds memory access issue in the ioapic_write_indirect() function. Updating the Kernel will ensure that the system is protected against potential exploitation of this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can apply the patch manually to the affected Kernel version. The patch can be obtained from the Linux Kernel repository at: https://git.kernel.org/pub/scm/linux/kernel/git/stable/linux.git/. However, it is strongly advised to update to the latest stable version of the Kernel to benefit from comprehensive security fixes and improvements.
Conclusion
The identified vulnerability in the Kernel's KVM subsystem poses a potential risk of unauthorized access or execution of arbitrary code. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.14.10 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Applying the provided patch manually or using package managers to update the Kernel will ensure the system's security. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven, but it has the potential to allow unauthorized access or execution of arbitrary code on the affected system.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert 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 and alert you in real-time if the vulnerability is present.
Yes, a workaround is available. Users can manually apply the patch provided by the Linux Kernel repository to the affected version. However, it is recommended to update to the latest stable version of the Kernel for comprehensive security fixes.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2021-1001730 entry of the GSD database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The entry can be accessed at: https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1001xxx/GSD-2021-1001730.json
To update the Linux Kernel, you can follow the official documentation provided by your Linux distribution. Typically, it involves using package managers like apt, yum, or dnf to install the latest Kernel version available for your distribution.
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