Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: ice - Avoid crash from unnecessary IDA free
Summary
GSD-2021-1002166: ice: Avoid crash from unnecessary IDA free. Affects Kernel versions >= d25a0fc41c1f927bb914e72a03c1898052557406, < 73e30a62b19b9fbb4e6a3465c59da186630d5f2e. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is a widely used open-source operating system kernel that serves as the foundation for various Linux distributions. It provides essential functionality for managing system resources, facilitating communication between hardware and software components, and enabling the execution of user applications. The 'ice' module within the Linux Kernel is responsible for handling network connectivity for Intel Ethernet devices. It includes various features and functions to ensure reliable and efficient network communication. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the 'ice' module that can lead to a crash due to an unnecessary IDA (Intel Dynamic Acceleration) free operation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the 'ice' module arises from an unnecessary IDA free operation. IDA is a feature in Intel Ethernet devices that dynamically adjusts the clock frequency and voltage to optimize performance and power consumption. In certain scenarios, the 'ice' module attempts to free the IDA even when it is not required, leading to a crash. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or disrupt network connectivity. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet. The vulnerability was introduced in Linux Kernel version v5.14 by commit d25a0fc41c1f927bb914e72a03c1898052557406 and has been fixed in version v5.15 by commit 73e30a62b19b9fbb4e6a3465c59da186630d5f2e.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can avoid the crash caused by this vulnerability by disabling the 'ice' module. This can be achieved by blacklisting the 'ice' module in the kernel configuration or by preventing its automatic loading during system startup. The specific steps to implement this workaround may vary depending on the Linux distribution being used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a vulnerability has been identified in the 'ice' module of the Linux Kernel that can lead to a crash due to an unnecessary IDA free operation. This vulnerability has the potential to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or disrupt network connectivity. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can range from a denial-of-service (DoS) condition to network connectivity disruptions. However, the actual impact and attack plausibility have not been proven yet.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your Linux Kernel version is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file and the Vulert Playground will provide real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
At the time of this report, there are no known exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is always recommended to apply security patches and updates to mitigate potential risks.
No, there is no CVE assigned to this vulnerability at the moment. However, it is advisable to stay updated with the latest security advisories and CVE assignments from the Linux Kernel community.
You can refer to the commit 73e30a62b19b9fbb4e6a3465c59da186630d5f2e in the official Linux Kernel repository for more details about the fix for this vulnerability.
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