Null Pointer Dereference Vulnerability in Bluetooth of Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1001086: Bluetooth: fix null ptr deref on hci_sync_conn_complete_evt. Affects Kernel versions < f61c23e73dc653b957781066abfa8105c3fa3f5b. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is a widely used open-source operating system kernel that serves as the foundation for various Linux distributions. It provides essential functionality for the system, including device drivers, process management, memory management, and file system support. Bluetooth is a wireless communication technology commonly used for short-range data exchange between devices. It is implemented in the Linux Kernel to enable Bluetooth functionality on Linux-based systems.
Vulnerability Detail
The identified vulnerability in the Bluetooth implementation of the Linux Kernel involves a null pointer dereference issue that occurs during the handling of the hci_sync_conn_complete_evt event. A null pointer dereference happens when a program attempts to access or manipulate data through a null pointer, leading to a crash or potential exploitation by an attacker. This vulnerability could be triggered by a malicious Bluetooth device or a crafted Bluetooth packet, potentially resulting in a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or arbitrary code execution.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can disable Bluetooth functionality on their Linux-based systems until the Kernel is updated to the fixed version. Disabling Bluetooth can be achieved by executing the following command in the terminal:
$
sudo systemctl disable bluetooth.service
Conclusion
The null pointer dereference vulnerability in the Bluetooth implementation of the Linux Kernel can be mitigated by updating the Kernel to version v5.17.3 or later. Disabling Bluetooth functionality on affected systems can serve as a temporary workaround. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability could lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or potential arbitrary code execution if exploited by an attacker.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file to the playground, and it will provide real-time monitoring and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting this vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the recommended fix or update the Linux Kernel to mitigate the risk.
Disabling Bluetooth functionality on your Linux-based system can serve as a temporary mitigation until the Kernel is updated. This can be done by executing the command 'sudo systemctl disable bluetooth.service' in the terminal.
You can refer to the Linux Kernel's Git repository at https://git.kernel.org/pub/scm/linux/kernel/git/stable/linux.git/ for more details about the fix. The vulnerability is tracked under the ID GSD-2022-1001086 in the GSD database, which can be accessed at https://github.com/cloudsecurityalliance/gsd-database/blob/main/2022/1001xxx/GSD-2022-1001086.json.
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