mac80211_hwsim: Uninitialized ieee80211_tx_info at hw_scan_work
Summary
GSD-2022-1000906: mac80211_hwsim: initialize ieee80211_tx_info at hw_scan_work. Affects Kernel versions < 4aee73beb5c8434416206d7c783fa487f24f0391. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The mac80211_hwsim is a module in the Linux Kernel that provides a virtual wireless interface for testing purposes. It allows developers to simulate wireless network scenarios without the need for physical hardware. The module is responsible for emulating the behavior of a wireless device and handling various operations related to wireless communication.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in mac80211_hwsim involves the uninitialized ieee80211_tx_info structure at the hw_scan_work function. This structure is used to store information about a transmitted packet, such as the destination address and transmission status. However, due to the lack of initialization, this structure may contain arbitrary values, leading to potential security issues. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to manipulate the transmission information, potentially causing denial-of-service attacks or unauthorized access to sensitive data.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can avoid using the mac80211_hwsim module or disable the module if it is not required for their system. Disabling the module eliminates the risk associated with the uninitialized ieee80211_tx_info structure. However, this workaround may impact the ability to perform wireless network testing using the virtual interface provided by mac80211_hwsim.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in mac80211_hwsim involving the uninitialized ieee80211_tx_info structure can be mitigated by updating the Linux Kernel to version v4.19.233 or later. Users can also choose to disable the mac80211_hwsim module if it is not necessary for their system. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
mac80211_hwsim is a module in the Linux Kernel that provides a virtual wireless interface for testing purposes.
The vulnerability allows for potential denial-of-service attacks or unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Updating the Linux Kernel to version v4.19.233 or later resolves this vulnerability.
Users can disable the mac80211_hwsim module if it is not required for their system.
Disabling the mac80211_hwsim module may impact the ability to perform wireless network testing using the virtual interface it provides.
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