Vulnerability in Kernel: net: ethernet: stmmac: fix altr_tse_pcs function when using a fixed-link
Summary
GSD-2022-1001660: net: ethernet: stmmac: fix altr_tse_pcs function when using a fixed-link. Affects Kernel versions >= fb3bbdb859891e6bc27fd1afb3a07319f82c2ee4, < 62a48383ebe2e159fd68425dd3e16d4c6bd6599a. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Kernel is a critical component of the Linux operating system that provides core functionality and acts as a bridge between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between different software components, and enables the execution of user programs. The stmmac module within the Kernel handles Ethernet communication and supports various Ethernet controllers. One of the functions in the stmmac module, altr_tse_pcs, is responsible for managing the physical coding sublayer (PCS) when using a fixed-link configuration.
Vulnerability Detail
The altr_tse_pcs function in the stmmac module is vulnerable when used with a fixed-link configuration. This vulnerability was introduced in version v4.8 of the Linux Kernel and has been present until version v5.15.35. The exact impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet. However, it is important to address this issue to ensure the security and stability of systems utilizing the affected Kernel versions.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can consider disabling the fixed-link configuration and using other supported configurations until the Kernel update is applied. This can be achieved by modifying the network configuration settings to utilize dynamic link configuration or other appropriate options. However, it is important to note that this workaround may not be feasible or suitable for all systems, and updating the Kernel is still the recommended solution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kernel vulnerability in the altr_tse_pcs function of the stmmac module when using a fixed-link configuration poses potential security risks. It is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to version v5.15.35 or later to address this vulnerability. Alternatively, users can consider applying the provided workaround until the Kernel update is applied. For further support and assistance with vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The exact impact of this vulnerability is currently unknown. However, it is important to address it to ensure the security and stability of systems utilizing the affected Kernel versions.
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.
Yes, a patch is available in the Linux Kernel version v5.15.35. It is recommended to update the Kernel to this version or a later version to fix the vulnerability.
Yes, as a workaround, you can consider disabling the fixed-link configuration and using other supported configurations until the Kernel update is applied. However, updating the Kernel is still the recommended solution.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GSD-2022-1001660 entry of the GSD Database maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The link to the entry is available in the references section of this report.
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