Vulnerability in Kernel: nfc: fix segfault in nfc_genl_dump_devices_done
Summary
GSD-2021-1002668: nfc: fix segfault in nfc_genl_dump_devices_done. Affects Kernel versions < d731ecc6f2eaec68f4ad1542283bbc7d07bd0112. 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 crucial component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and facilitating communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The nfc (Near Field Communication) subsystem within the Kernel enables communication between devices in close proximity. This vulnerability, identified as GSD-2021-1002668, affects the nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function in the Kernel. The function is prone to a segmentation fault, which can lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function arises due to a segmentation fault. This can occur when the function is called with invalid or maliciously crafted input. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to crash the system, causing a denial-of-service condition. In some cases, it may also be possible for an attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to further compromise of the system. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.
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
As a workaround, users can avoid the exploitation of this vulnerability by disabling the nfc subsystem if it is not required for their system's functionality. This can be achieved by blacklisting the nfc module or removing it from the Kernel configuration. However, this workaround may impact the functionality of devices that rely on NFC communication.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the nfc_genl_dump_devices_done function of the Kernel can lead to a denial-of-service condition or potential code execution. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.4.167 or later to fix this vulnerability. Alternatively, users can disable the nfc subsystem if it is not required for their system's functionality. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for Kernel →
FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can range from a denial-of-service condition, where the system crashes and becomes unresponsive, to potential execution of arbitrary code by an attacker.
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, a patch for this vulnerability is available in the Linux Kernel version v5.4.167. It is recommended to update to this version or a later one to ensure the vulnerability is fixed.
While updating the Kernel is the recommended solution, you can mitigate the risk by disabling the nfc subsystem if it is not required for your system's functionality. This can be done by blacklisting the nfc module or removing it from the Kernel configuration.
At the time of this report, there are no known exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the necessary updates and security patches to protect against potential future exploits.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for Kernel.
