net: netlink: af_netlink: Prevent empty skb by adding a check on len
Summary
GSD-2021-1002650: net: netlink: af_netlink: Prevent empty skb by adding a check on len. Affects Kernel versions < ff3f517bf7138e01a17369042908a3f345c0ee41. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is an open-source monolithic Unix-like computer operating system kernel. It provides the essential services for the computer's hardware and software to communicate. The netlink subsystem in the kernel allows communication between the kernel and user-space processes. The af_netlink module is responsible for handling netlink sockets. This vulnerability affects the af_netlink module and can lead to an empty skb (socket buffer) if a check on len is not performed.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the af_netlink module of the Linux Kernel allows for the creation of an empty skb due to the absence of a check on len. This can potentially lead to various security issues, such as null pointer dereferences or out-of-bounds memory access. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) attack or execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the af_netlink module of the Linux Kernel can lead to the creation of an empty skb, potentially resulting in security issues and allowing for denial-of-service attacks or arbitrary code execution with kernel privileges. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.19.222 or later to fix this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can range from denial-of-service (DoS) attacks to arbitrary code execution with kernel privileges.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities without requiring access to the code or installation.
Yes, a patch is available in the Linux Kernel version v4.19.222. It is recommended to update to this version or later to fix the vulnerability.
The details regarding remote exploitation of this vulnerability have not been provided. However, it is important to keep the kernel updated to the latest version to mitigate potential risks.
There is no information available regarding known instances of this vulnerability being exploited at the moment.
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