Reordered Logic Vulnerability in NFC Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1002218: NFC: reorder the logic in nfc_{un,}register_device. Affects Kernel versions >= be055b2f89b5842f41363b5655a33dffb51a8294, < 5ef16d2d172ee56714cff37cd005b98aba08ef5a. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The NFC (Near Field Communication) kernel is responsible for managing communication between devices in close proximity. It enables features such as contactless payments, file sharing, and device pairing. The vulnerability in question arises from a logic reordering issue in the nfc_register_device and nfc_unregister_device functions.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability occurs due to the incorrect ordering of logic in the nfc_register_device and nfc_unregister_device functions. This flaw could potentially be exploited by an attacker to manipulate the NFC device registration process, leading to unauthorized access or denial of service. The vulnerability was introduced in version v3.10 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v4.4.293.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can disable NFC functionality on their devices until the kernel is updated. This can be done by modifying the device's configuration settings or by unloading the NFC kernel module if it is loaded.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reordering logic vulnerability in the NFC kernel can potentially be exploited to gain unauthorized access or cause denial of service. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.4.293 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. If you have any further questions or need assistance with vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless communication technology that allows devices to exchange data when they are in close proximity.
This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to manipulate the NFC device registration process, leading to unauthorized access or 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 Vulert Playground will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
Yes, a patch for this vulnerability is available in version v4.4.293 of the Linux Kernel. It is recommended to update to this version or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Yes, disabling NFC functionality on your device can serve as a temporary workaround until the kernel is updated. This can be done by modifying the device's configuration settings or by unloading the NFC kernel module if it is loaded.
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