Indefinitely Sleeping Task in poll_schedule_timeout() Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1000238: select: Fix indefinitely sleeping task in poll_schedule_timeout(). Affects Kernel versions < 145407e54fd15fd2a87ee7d6c66077e614036a9b. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface for applications to interact with the hardware. It is widely used in various devices, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems. The poll_schedule_timeout() function is part of the kernel's polling mechanism, allowing processes to wait for events on file descriptors. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in this function that can lead to an indefinitely sleeping task, potentially causing a denial of service or resource exhaustion.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a flaw in the poll_schedule_timeout() function, which can result in a task sleeping indefinitely. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by causing a process to enter a polling state and never wake up, leading to resource depletion or a denial of service condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet. It is important to note that this vulnerability has been fixed in the Linux Kernel version v5.15.18 by commit 145407e54fd15fd2a87ee7d6c66077e614036a9b.
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. However, users can mitigate the risk by ensuring they have the latest security updates installed and following best practices for system hardening.
Conclusion
The indefinitely sleeping task vulnerability in the poll_schedule_timeout() function of the Linux Kernel can lead to resource exhaustion or denial of service. It is crucial to update the kernel to version v5.15.18 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface for applications to interact with the hardware.
The poll_schedule_timeout() function is part of the Linux Kernel's polling mechanism, allowing processes to wait for events on file descriptors.
The impact of this vulnerability can include resource exhaustion or denial of service if an attacker can cause a process to enter an indefinitely sleeping state.
Yes, this vulnerability has been fixed in the Linux Kernel version v5.15.18 by commit 145407e54fd15fd2a87ee7d6c66077e614036a9b.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15.18 or later.
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