Null Pointer Dereference in drm/msm Package

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/11/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1001917: drm/msm: Fix null pointer dereference on pointer edp. Affects Kernel versions >= ab5b0107ccf3821a6837b0f2819270d6fa0b278f, < f175b9a83e5c252d7c74acddc792840016caae0a. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The drm/msm package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for graphics and display functionality on Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets. It includes drivers for various display interfaces, such as HDMI, DSI, and eDP. The package is responsible for managing the communication between the kernel and the display hardware, enabling the rendering and output of graphics on compatible devices.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability identified in the drm/msm package is a null pointer dereference on the 'edp' pointer. A null pointer dereference occurs when a program attempts to access or manipulate data using a null pointer, resulting in a crash or undefined behavior. In this case, the vulnerability can be triggered by a specific sequence of operations or inputs, leading to a null pointer dereference on the 'edp' pointer within the drm/msm package. The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the context in which it is exploited, but it has the potential to cause system instability, crashes, or even remote code execution.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As a workaround, users can apply the patch provided in commit f175b9a83e5c252d7c74acddc792840016caae0a manually. Here is an example of the code change:

- if (edp->some_field == NULL)
+ if (!edp || edp->some_field == NULL)
   return;

Conclusion

The null pointer dereference vulnerability in the drm/msm package can lead to system crashes, instability, or even remote code execution. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.4.290 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Applying the provided patch or workaround can also help in the interim. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

A null pointer dereference occurs when a program attempts to access or manipulate data using a null pointer. This can lead to crashes, system instability, or even remote code execution.

This vulnerability can be exploited by providing a specific sequence of operations or inputs that trigger the null pointer dereference on the 'edp' pointer within the drm/msm package.

The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the context in which it is exploited. It has the potential to cause system crashes, instability, or even allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely.

Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v4.4.290. It is recommended to update to this version or later to mitigate the risk.

Yes, a temporary workaround is to manually apply the patch provided in commit f175b9a83e5c252d7c74acddc792840016caae0a. This can be done by modifying the code as shown in the 'workaround' section.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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