Vulnerability in Kernel: serial: core: fix transmit-buffer reset and memleak
Summary
GSD-2021-1002501: serial: core: fix transmit-buffer reset and memleak. Affects Kernel versions >= 761ed4a94582ab291aa24dcbea4e01e8936488c8, < e1722acf4f0d4d67b60f57e08ce16f8b66cd4b8f. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a crucial component of the Linux operating system that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software layers. It provides essential functionalities and services to enable the proper functioning of the system. One of its key features is serial communication, which allows data transmission between devices through a serial port. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the Kernel's serial core module, specifically related to the reset of the transmit buffer and a memory leak issue.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the Kernel's serial core module arises from a flaw in the reset mechanism of the transmit buffer. This flaw can lead to unexpected behavior and potential security risks. Attackers may exploit this vulnerability to manipulate or intercept data being transmitted through the serial port, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the system. Additionally, the vulnerability also causes a memory leak, which can result in resource exhaustion and system instability over time. It is important to address this vulnerability promptly to mitigate the associated risks.
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 v5.10.84 or later. The fix for this issue was implemented in commit e1722acf4f0d4d67b60f57e08ce16f8b66cd4b8f. Updating the Kernel will ensure that the transmit-buffer reset flaw and memory leak issue are resolved, thereby enhancing the security and stability of the system.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable or disconnect any unused serial ports to reduce the potential attack surface. However, this is not a permanent solution and should be considered only until the Kernel update can be applied.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vulnerability in the Kernel's serial core module can lead to potential security risks and system instability. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.10.84 or later to fix this vulnerability. Additionally, users can temporarily disable or disconnect unused serial ports as a workaround until the update can be applied. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
This vulnerability can allow attackers to manipulate or intercept data transmitted through the serial port, potentially compromising system integrity and confidentiality. It can also lead to resource exhaustion and system instability due to the memory leak issue.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file, and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
Yes, as a temporary workaround, you can disable or disconnect any unused serial ports on your system. However, this is not a permanent solution and should be considered only until the Kernel update can be applied.
At the time of this report, no known exploits for this vulnerability have been identified. However, it is crucial to apply the necessary updates and fixes to mitigate the associated risks.
You can refer to the vulnerability details in the Open Source Vulnerability format at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1002xxx/GSD-2021-1002501.json for more technical information and references.
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