USB Null Pointer Dereference Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
UVI-2021-1001032: usb: fix various gadgets null ptr deref on 10gbps cabling. Affects Kernel versions >= eaef50c760576bca70b87fdc26eb87a3660529f8, < f17aae7c4009160f0630a91842a281773976a5bc. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is a widely used open-source operating system kernel that serves as the foundation for various Linux distributions. It provides essential functionality for hardware interaction, process management, and system resource allocation. The USB subsystem within the Linux Kernel enables communication with USB devices, allowing for data transfer and device control. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the USB subsystem that can lead to null pointer dereference issues when using 10Gbps cabling.
Vulnerability Detail
The USB null pointer dereference vulnerability in the Linux Kernel occurs when certain USB gadgets are utilized with 10Gbps cabling. This vulnerability can result in a null pointer dereference, leading to a system crash or potential privilege escalation. An attacker with physical access to a vulnerable system and the ability to connect a malicious USB gadget could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or disrupt system operations. The vulnerability was introduced in version 4.6 of the Linux Kernel and has been fixed in version 5.12.11.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable the use of 10Gbps cabling or avoid connecting untrusted USB gadgets to vulnerable systems. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation until the kernel is updated to a patched version.
Conclusion
The USB null pointer dereference vulnerability in the Linux Kernel poses a risk of system crashes, potential privilege escalation, and arbitrary code execution. It is crucial to update the kernel to version 5.12.11 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Users can also utilize the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if their systems are affected and receive real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The USB null pointer dereference vulnerability can result in system crashes, potential privilege escalation, and the execution of arbitrary code by an attacker with physical access to a vulnerable 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 to the playground, and it will analyze the dependencies and alert you if any known vulnerabilities, including this USB null pointer dereference vulnerability, are detected.
At the time of this report, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, it is important to promptly apply the recommended fixes to mitigate the risk of potential exploitation.
No, this vulnerability requires physical access to a vulnerable system and the ability to connect a malicious USB gadget. Remote exploitation is not possible.
The primary mitigation for this vulnerability is to update the Linux Kernel to a patched version. However, as a temporary workaround, users can disable the use of 10Gbps cabling or avoid connecting untrusted USB gadgets to vulnerable systems.
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