HID: amd_sfh: Fix potential NULL pointer dereference in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1001743: HID: amd_sfh: Fix potential NULL pointer dereference. Affects Kernel versions < 283e4bee701dfcd409dd293f19a268bb2bc8ff38. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. It provides essential services and functions, such as device drivers, memory management, and process scheduling. The HID (Human Interface Device) subsystem within the Kernel handles input devices like keyboards, mice, and touchscreens. The amd_sfh driver is responsible for supporting AMD Secure Hardware Features. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the amd_sfh driver that could lead to a potential NULL pointer dereference.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the amd_sfh driver arises from a potential NULL pointer dereference. If a certain condition is met, the driver may attempt to dereference a NULL pointer, leading to a system crash or potential privilege escalation. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or crash the system, resulting in a denial-of-service (DoS) situation. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Conclusion
The HID: amd_sfh vulnerability in the Kernel poses a potential risk of NULL pointer dereference, which could lead to system crashes, privilege escalation, or arbitrary code execution. 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 HID subsystem in the Kernel is responsible for handling human interface devices like keyboards, mice, and touchscreens. It provides the necessary drivers and functionality to enable communication between these input devices and the operating system.
AMD Secure Hardware Features (SFH) refer to a set of security features provided by AMD processors. These features aim to enhance the security of the system by providing hardware-based protection mechanisms.
A NULL pointer dereference occurs when a program attempts to access or manipulate data through a pointer that is pointing to a NULL (empty) memory address. This can lead to a crash or undefined behavior if not handled properly.
The potential consequences of this vulnerability include system crashes, privilege escalation, and the execution of arbitrary code by an attacker. These actions can lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) situation or compromise the security and integrity of the system.
You can use Vulert's playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) 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, without requiring access to the code or installation.
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