HID: bigbenff: Prevent Null Pointer Dereference in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1002458: HID: bigbenff: prevent null pointer dereference. Affects Kernel versions < 8e0ceff632f48175ec7fb4706129c55ca8a7c7bd. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system. It provides essential functionality and interfaces for hardware, software, and user applications. The HID (Human Interface Device) subsystem in the Linux Kernel handles input devices such as keyboards, mice, and game controllers. The bigbenff driver is responsible for supporting BigBen gamepad devices. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the bigbenff driver that could lead to a null pointer dereference.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the bigbenff driver allows an attacker to trigger a null pointer dereference, which can result in a system crash or potentially allow the execution of arbitrary code. A null pointer dereference occurs when a program attempts to access or manipulate data using a null pointer, leading to a segmentation fault or other undefined behavior. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker with local access to the system or through a malicious USB device.
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 v5.4.165 or later. The fix for this vulnerability was implemented in commit 8e0ceff632f48175ec7fb4706129c55ca8a7c7bd. Updating the Kernel to the latest version will ensure that the null pointer dereference issue in the bigbenff driver is resolved.
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Workaround
If updating the Kernel is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to disable the bigbenff driver or remove any connected BigBen gamepad devices. This can be achieved by blacklisting the bigbenff module or modifying the system's udev rules to ignore BigBen gamepad devices. However, it is strongly recommended to update the Kernel as soon as possible to fully address the vulnerability.
Conclusion
The HID: bigbenff null pointer dereference vulnerability in the Linux Kernel can be mitigated by updating to version v5.4.165 or later. It is important to promptly apply the necessary updates to ensure the security and stability of the system. For further assistance or support in addressing this vulnerability, 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 a system crash or other undefined behavior.
An attacker with local access to the system or through a malicious USB device can exploit this vulnerability to trigger a null pointer dereference, potentially leading to a system crash or arbitrary code execution.
Remote exploitation of this vulnerability is unlikely as it requires local access to the system or a malicious USB device.
The vulnerability is present in versions of the Linux Kernel prior to v5.4.165. Updating to this version or later will address the vulnerability.
The impact of this vulnerability can range from a system crash to potential execution of arbitrary code, depending on how it is exploited.
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