Vulnerability in Kernel: Forbid bpf_ktime_get_coarse_ns and bpf_timer_* in tracing progs

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

29/11/2021

Disclosed on

N/A

Severity

No i

Fix available

Unrated

Severity

Not published

CVSS Score

GSD-2021-1002304: bpf: Forbid bpf_ktime_get_coarse_ns and bpf_timer_* in tracing progs. Affects Kernel versions >= d055126180564a57fe533728a4e93d0cb53d49b3, < 439b99314b635b40f2e0622eabe62d7055bb409b. 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 functionalities and interfaces between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between processes, and ensures security and stability. The Kernel is responsible for executing system calls, managing memory, and handling device drivers. This vulnerability specifically affects the Kernel's tracing programs, which are used for monitoring and debugging purposes.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability identified in the Kernel's tracing programs involves the usage of two specific functions: bpf_ktime_get_coarse_ns and bpf_timer_*. These functions have been found to pose potential security risks and are therefore forbidden in tracing programs. The exact impact and plausibility of an attack using these functions have not been proven yet. However, it is crucial to address this vulnerability to prevent potential exploitation and ensure the overall security of the system.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15.5 or later. The fix for this vulnerability was implemented in commit 439b99314b635b40f2e0622eabe62d7055bb409b. Updating to the latest version will ensure that the forbidden functions are no longer accessible in tracing programs, mitigating the associated security risks.

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. It is advised to follow the recommended fix and update the Kernel to the latest version.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in the Kernel's tracing programs, which forbids the usage of bpf_ktime_get_coarse_ns and bpf_timer_* functions, poses potential security risks. It is crucial to update the Kernel to the latest version (v5.15.5 or later) to mitigate these risks. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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