net: netlink: af_netlink: Prevent empty skb by adding a check on len

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

27/12/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2021-1002694: net: netlink: af_netlink: Prevent empty skb by adding a check on len. Affects Kernel versions < dadce61247c6230489527cc5e343b6002d1114c5. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Linux Kernel is a widely used open-source operating system kernel that serves as the foundation for various Linux distributions. It provides essential functionality for managing system resources, including networking. The netlink subsystem is a communication interface used by various kernel components to exchange information with user-space processes. The af_netlink module specifically handles netlink sockets for communication between the kernel and user-space applications.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability identified as GSD-2021-1002694 in the af_netlink module of the Linux Kernel allows for the creation of an empty skb (socket buffer) without proper validation of its length. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or execute arbitrary code in the kernel context. By leveraging this vulnerability, an attacker may be able to crash the system or gain elevated privileges.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

No specific workaround has been provided for this vulnerability.

Conclusion

The vulnerability identified in the af_netlink module of the Linux Kernel could potentially lead to a denial-of-service condition or unauthorized code execution. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.10.87 or later to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

This vulnerability could potentially lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the kernel context. Exploiting this vulnerability may result in system crashes or unauthorized access with elevated privileges.

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 GSD-2021-1002694.

At the time of this report, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is important to promptly apply the recommended fix to mitigate the risk of potential exploitation.

The vulnerability is present in versions of the Linux Kernel prior to v5.10.87. It is recommended to update to the latest patched version to ensure the vulnerability is addressed.

For more details about this vulnerability, you can refer to the source information provided by the Cloud Security Alliance's GSD Database at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2021/1002xxx/GSD-2021-1002694.json.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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