Vulnerability in mxser package: xmit_buf leak in activate when LSR == 0xff
Summary
GSD-2022-1001183: mxser: fix xmit_buf leak in activate when LSR == 0xff. Affects Kernel versions >= 6769140d304731f0a3b177470a2adb4bacd9036b, < 6dffc2035fbaada60ca8db59e0962e34f760370a. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The mxser package is a component of the Linux Kernel, an open-source operating system. It provides support for multiport serial devices. The mxser driver handles the activation and transmission of data through these serial devices. The vulnerability in question arises when the Line Status Register (LSR) value is set to 0xff during the activation process. This can lead to a memory leak in the xmit_buf, potentially causing instability or crashes in the system.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability occurs in the mxser driver's activate function when the LSR value is set to 0xff. This triggers a memory leak in the xmit_buf, which can result in resource exhaustion and system instability. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition or execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability was introduced in version v2.6.33 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version v5.17.2.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid triggering the vulnerability by ensuring that the LSR value is not set to 0xff during the activation process. This can be achieved by modifying the relevant code in the mxser driver or by implementing additional checks to prevent the LSR value from reaching 0xff.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mxser package in the Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a memory leak in the xmit_buf when the LSR value is set to 0xff during activation. This vulnerability can lead to system instability, crashes, and potential exploitation by attackers. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.17.2 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The mxser package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides support for multiport serial devices.
The vulnerability can lead to a memory leak in the xmit_buf, potentially causing system instability or crashes. It could also be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.17.2 or later.
As a temporary workaround, users can ensure that the LSR value is not set to 0xff during the activation process.
For more information about this vulnerability, you can refer to the source link provided in the database_specific section of the vulnerability details.
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