Vulnerability in Kernel: ipmi: ssif: initialize ssif_info->client early
Summary
GSD-2021-1002806: ipmi: ssif: initialize ssif_info->client early. Affects Kernel versions >= c4436c9149c5d2bc0c49ab57ec85c75ea1c4d61c, < 1f6ab847461ce7dd89ae9db2dd4658c993355d7c. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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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 and services to ensure the proper functioning of the system. One of the features supported by the Kernel is the Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI), which allows remote management and monitoring of computer systems. The IPMI subsystem includes the ssif module, which handles communication with the System Services Interface (SSI) bus. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the ssif module that could potentially be exploited by attackers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the ssif module of the Kernel arises from a failure to properly initialize the ssif_info->client structure. This can lead to uninitialized memory access and subsequent security issues. Although the exact impact and attack vectors have not been proven, this vulnerability has the potential to be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access, execute arbitrary code, or cause a denial-of-service condition. The vulnerability was introduced in Kernel version v5.4 by commit c4436c9149c5d2bc0c49ab57ec85c75ea1c4d61c and has been fixed in version v5.10.89 by commit 1f6ab847461ce7dd89ae9db2dd4658c993355d7c.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable the IPMI ssif module by blacklisting it. This can be achieved by adding the following line to the modprobe configuration file (/etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf):
blacklist ssif
After adding the line, the system should be rebooted for the changes to take effect. However, it is important to note that this workaround disables the IPMI ssif functionality, which may impact systems relying on it for remote management and monitoring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a vulnerability has been identified in the Kernel's IPMI ssif module that could potentially be exploited by attackers. It is recommended to update the Kernel to version v5.10.89 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Alternatively, users can apply a temporary workaround by blacklisting the ssif module, although this may impact IPMI ssif functionality. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability can vary depending on the specific system configuration and usage. However, potential consequences include unauthorized access, arbitrary code execution, and denial-of-service conditions.
You can use the Vulert 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.
Yes, a patch for this vulnerability is available in Kernel version v5.10.89 and later. It is recommended to update the Kernel to the latest version to ensure the vulnerability is addressed.
As a temporary workaround, you can disable the IPMI ssif module by blacklisting it. However, this workaround disables the IPMI ssif functionality, which may impact systems relying on it for remote management and monitoring.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2021-1002806 entry of the GSD Database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The entry includes the vulnerability details, affected package, and references to the relevant commits in the Linux Kernel repository.
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