Divide by Zero Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1001460: video: fbdev: cirrusfb: check pixclock to avoid divide by zero. Affects Kernel versions < 45800c42ef000f417270bcfc08630e42486fca99. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface between hardware and software. It is widely used in various devices, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems. The vulnerability identified in this report affects the video subsystem of the Linux Kernel, specifically the cirrusfb driver. This driver is responsible for supporting the Cirrus Logic graphics controller family. The vulnerability arises due to a lack of proper validation in the handling of the pixclock parameter, which can lead to a divide by zero error.
Vulnerability Detail
The divide by zero vulnerability in the cirrusfb driver of the Linux Kernel can be exploited by an attacker to cause a denial-of-service condition or potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. By providing a specially crafted value for the pixclock parameter, an attacker can trigger a divide by zero error, leading to a system crash or potential privilege escalation. This vulnerability can be exploited remotely if the affected system is running a service that utilizes the cirrusfb driver, such as a virtual machine host.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If updating the Linux Kernel is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround can be implemented by disabling the cirrusfb driver. This can be achieved by blacklisting the 'cirrus' module or removing it from the kernel configuration. However, it is important to note that this workaround may result in the loss of functionality provided by the cirrusfb driver, such as support for Cirrus Logic graphics controllers.
Conclusion
The divide by zero vulnerability in the cirrusfb driver of the Linux Kernel can have serious consequences, including system crashes and potential privilege escalation. It is crucial for users to update their Linux Kernel to the fixed version or implement the provided workaround to mitigate the risk. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to a system crash or potential privilege escalation, allowing an attacker to disrupt the affected system or execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely if the affected system is running a service that utilizes the cirrusfb driver, such as a virtual machine host.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in the Linux Kernel version v5.16.19 by commit 45800c42ef000f417270bcfc08630e42486fca99.
To update the Linux Kernel, users can obtain the updated kernel source code from the official Linux Kernel repository and compile it for their specific system configuration. Alternatively, they can wait for their Linux distribution to provide an updated package containing the fixed kernel version.
Yes, a temporary workaround is to disable the cirrusfb driver by blacklisting the 'cirrus' module or removing it from the kernel configuration. However, this may result in the loss of functionality provided by the cirrusfb driver.
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