Fix Segfault in nfc_genl_dump_devices_done in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2021-1002620: nfc: fix segfault in nfc_genl_dump_devices_done. Affects Kernel versions < 214af18abbe39db05beb305b2d11e87d09a6529c. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
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 ensures the stability and security of the system. The nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function in the Kernel is responsible for handling NFC (Near Field Communication) devices. NFC enables short-range wireless communication between devices, often used for contactless payments and data transfer. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function that can lead to a segmentation fault, causing the system to crash or become unstable.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function can be exploited by an attacker to trigger a segmentation fault, resulting in a denial-of-service (DoS) condition. By sending specially crafted input to the function, an attacker can cause the system to crash or become unresponsive. This vulnerability may also be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, potentially leading to a complete compromise of the system. The vulnerability has been assigned the ID GSD-2021-1002620 and has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v4.9.294 by commit 214af18abbe39db05beb305b2d11e87d09a6529c.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the fix by updating the Linux Kernel to the patched version.
Conclusion
The nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function in the Kernel is vulnerable to a segmentation fault, leading to a denial-of-service condition and potential code execution with kernel privileges. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.9.294 or later. Users can check if their system is affected using Vulert's playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) and should apply the fix as soon as possible to ensure the security and stability of their systems. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for Kernel →
FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition, causing the system to crash or become unresponsive. It may also allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, potentially compromising the entire system.
You can use Vulert's playground (https://vulert.com/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.
At the time of this report, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the fix as soon as possible to mitigate the risk.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely. An attacker can send specially crafted input to the vulnerable function over a network connection to trigger a segmentation fault and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system.
Unfortunately, there are no known mitigations or workarounds for this vulnerability. It is highly recommended to update the Linux Kernel to the patched version as soon as possible.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for Kernel.
