Vulnerability in Kernel: virtio_device_restore() Function
Summary
GSD-2022-1001429: virtio: use virtio_device_ready() in virtio_device_restore(). Affects Kernel versions >= d50497eb4e554e1f0351e1836ee7241c059592e6, < 94e9f5da39ee5f8ea31be1585de31c54f10dedce. 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 provides core functionality and acts as an interface between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between different software components, and ensures the overall stability and security of the system. The virtio subsystem in the Kernel enables efficient communication between virtual machines and their host systems. It utilizes the virtio_device_restore() function to restore the state of a virtio device during system recovery or migration. However, a vulnerability has been identified in this function that could potentially be exploited by attackers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the improper use of the virtio_device_restore() function in the virtio subsystem of the Kernel. Specifically, the function is not properly checking if the virtio device is ready before restoring its state. This oversight could lead to the restoration of an inconsistent or malicious device state, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code or trigger a denial-of-service condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet, but it is crucial to address it to ensure the security and integrity of the system.
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 temporarily disable the virtio subsystem or remove any virtio devices from their system. However, this may impact the functionality and performance of virtual machines that rely on virtio for efficient communication. It is strongly advised to apply the official Kernel update as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a vulnerability has been identified in the Kernel's virtio subsystem, specifically in the virtio_device_restore() function. This vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or trigger a denial-of-service condition. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.16.19 or later to address this issue. Users can also use the Vulert Playground to check if their system is affected by this vulnerability. For further support and assistance with vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for Kernel →
FAQ
The virtio subsystem is a framework in the Linux Kernel that provides efficient communication between virtual machines and their host systems. It utilizes paravirtualization techniques to optimize device I/O and improve performance.
The impact of this vulnerability is not yet proven, but it could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or trigger a denial-of-service condition by exploiting the improper restoration of a virtio device's state.
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 open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
As of now, there is no known exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is essential to address it promptly by applying the recommended Kernel update to mitigate any potential risks.
You can find more information about this vulnerability, including the specific commits that fix it, in the vulnerability database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The reference link is provided in the vulnerability details section.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for Kernel.
