Double Uncharge Memory Vulnerability in Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1001204: bpf, sockmap: Fix double uncharge the mem of sk_msg. Affects Kernel versions >= 604326b41a6fb9b4a78b6179335decee0365cd8c, < ac3ecb7760c750c8e4fc09c719241d8e6e88028c. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
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 functionality for the proper functioning of the system. The vulnerability in question affects the Kernel's bpf and sockmap modules, which are responsible for handling network socket operations. These modules allow for the creation of socket-based communication channels between processes. However, a flaw in the implementation of sk_msg handling can lead to a double uncharge of memory, potentially resulting in memory corruption or denial of service.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a double uncharge of memory in the sk_msg structure within the bpf and sockmap modules. When processing certain network socket operations, the system may incorrectly release memory twice, leading to memory corruption or a system crash. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service. The vulnerability was introduced in version 4.20 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version 5.17.2.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a workaround, users can disable the affected bpf and sockmap modules if they are not essential for the system's operation. This can be done by modifying the system configuration or kernel parameters to exclude these modules from loading. However, this workaround may impact the functionality of certain network socket operations, so it is recommended to apply the official fix as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The double uncharge memory vulnerability in the Kernel's bpf and sockmap modules can lead to memory corruption or denial of service. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version 5.17.2 or later to fix this vulnerability. Users can also disable the affected modules as a temporary workaround. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for Kernel →
FAQ
The vulnerability can potentially lead to memory corruption or denial of service. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or crash the system.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your system is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file, and Vulert will analyze it for any known vulnerabilities, including this one.
Yes, a patch has been released in version 5.17.2 of the Linux Kernel. It is recommended to update to this version or later to fix the vulnerability.
Yes, you can disable the affected bpf and sockmap modules if they are not essential for your system. However, it is recommended to apply the official fix as soon as possible.
At the time of this report, no known exploits for this vulnerability have been reported. However, it is crucial to apply the fix promptly to mitigate any potential risks.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for Kernel.
