Use-after-free vulnerability in rtl8712_dl_fw in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1002209: staging: rtl8712: fix use-after-free in rtl8712_dl_fw. Affects Kernel versions >= 8c213fa59199f9673d66970d6940fa093186642f, < a65c9afe9f2f55b7a7fb4a25ab654cd4139683a4. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionality and interfaces with hardware devices. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between software and hardware, and supports various drivers and subsystems. The rtl8712_dl_fw function in the staging subsystem of the Kernel is responsible for downloading firmware for the RTL8712 wireless chipset. This chipset is commonly used in wireless network adapters. However, a use-after-free vulnerability has been discovered in the rtl8712_dl_fw function, which could lead to potential security issues.
Vulnerability Detail
The use-after-free vulnerability in rtl8712_dl_fw arises from improper memory management. When the function is called to download firmware for the RTL8712 chipset, it fails to properly handle memory deallocation, resulting in a use-after-free condition. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious firmware or by triggering specific conditions that cause the function to be called with manipulated data. This could lead to arbitrary code execution, privilege escalation, or denial of service. The vulnerability was introduced in Kernel version v3.3 and has been fixed in version v5.15.2.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround available for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update the Kernel to the fixed version as soon as possible to mitigate the risk.
Conclusion
The use-after-free vulnerability in rtl8712_dl_fw poses a significant security risk to systems running the affected Kernel versions. It is crucial to update the Kernel to version v5.15.2 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Failure to do so could result in potential exploitation and compromise of the system. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The use-after-free vulnerability in rtl8712_dl_fw could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause denial of service.
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 and the playground will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
At the time of this report, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is important to patch your system to prevent any potential exploitation.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely if the affected system is connected to a network and the attacker can send crafted firmware or trigger the vulnerable function remotely.
If you are unable to update the Kernel immediately, it is recommended to implement other security measures such as network segmentation, access controls, and intrusion detection systems to minimize the risk of exploitation.
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