Vulnerability in Kernel: KVM: x86/mmu: make apf token non-zero to fix bug

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

18/03/2022
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2022-1000752: KVM: x86/mmu: make apf token non-zero to fix bug. Affects Kernel versions < 62040f5cd7d937de547836e747b6aa8212fec573. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software. It provides essential functionalities such as process management, memory management, and device drivers. The Kernel is responsible for ensuring the security and stability of the system. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the Kernel's KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) module, specifically in the x86/mmu subsystem. This vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit a bug related to the apf (Advanced Page Fault) token, potentially leading to unauthorized access or privilege escalation.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability arises from a bug in the x86/mmu subsystem of the KVM module. The apf token, which is used to handle advanced page faults, was not being properly initialized and set to zero. This bug could be exploited by an attacker to bypass security measures or gain elevated privileges within a virtual machine environment. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet, but it poses a potential risk to the security and integrity of the system. The vulnerability has been addressed in the Linux Kernel version v5.16.12 by commit 62040f5cd7d937de547836e747b6aa8212fec573.

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. The recommended course of action is to apply the fix by updating the Linux Kernel to the patched version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a vulnerability has been identified in the Kernel's KVM module, specifically in the x86/mmu subsystem. This vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit a bug related to the apf token, potentially leading to unauthorized access or privilege escalation. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.16.12 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software.

KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) is a virtualization module in the Linux Kernel that allows running virtual machines on a host system.

The x86/mmu subsystem is responsible for managing memory and handling page faults in the x86 architecture within the Kernel.

An apf token is used in the handling of advanced page faults within the KVM module.

To fix this vulnerability, update the Linux Kernel to version v5.16.12 or later.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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