Vulnerability in Kernel: mm: Consider __GFP_NOWARN flag for oversized kvmalloc() calls
Summary
GSD-2022-1000776: mm: Consider __GFP_NOWARN flag for oversized kvmalloc() calls. Affects Kernel versions >= 7661809d493b426e979f39ab512e3adf41fbcc69, < 261eff11ade981b23dbbfc73c0ecae3966352974. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionality and acts as an interface between hardware and software. It manages system resources, including memory, processes, and device drivers. The mm subsystem within the Kernel is responsible for memory management. One of its functions is allocating memory using the kvmalloc() call. However, oversized kvmalloc() calls can lead to potential security vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the lack of consideration for the __GFP_NOWARN flag in oversized kvmalloc() calls. This flag suppresses allocation warnings, which can be useful in scenarios where oversized allocations are expected. Without this flag, warnings are generated, potentially leading to unnecessary noise and confusion. While the impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven, it is essential to address it to maintain code clarity and minimize false positives.
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.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vulnerability in Kernel's mm subsystem regarding oversized kvmalloc() calls can lead to unnecessary warnings and confusion in the codebase. It is recommended to address this vulnerability by adding the __GFP_NOWARN flag to appropriate calls. The fix has been implemented in Linux Kernel version v5.15.27. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven. However, it can lead to unnecessary warnings and confusion in the codebase.
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The __GFP_NOWARN flag suppresses allocation warnings in oversized kvmalloc() calls, reducing noise and improving code readability.
This vulnerability was fixed in Linux Kernel version v5.15.27 by commit 261eff11ade981b23dbbfc73c0ecae3966352974.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2022-1000776 entry on the Cloud Security Alliance's GSD database: https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2022/1000xxx/GSD-2022-1000776.json
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