Memory Leak in mlx5_core_destroy_cq() Error Path in Kernel

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/11/2021
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

UVI-2021-1002151: net/mlx5e: Fix memory leak in mlx5_core_destroy_cq() error path. Affects Kernel versions >= e126ba97dba9edeb6fafa3665b5f8497fc9cdf8c, < 94b960b9deffc02fc0747afc01f72cc62ab099e3. 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 functionalities and acts as an interface between hardware and software. It manages system resources, facilitates communication between different software components, and ensures the stability and security of the system. The mlx5e module in the Kernel is responsible for handling Mellanox network adapters, specifically the ConnectX-5 Ethernet adapter. This module enables high-performance networking capabilities for applications running on Linux systems.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability identified as UVI-2021-1002151 affects the net/mlx5e module in the Kernel. Specifically, it involves a memory leak issue in the mlx5_core_destroy_cq() function's error path. When an error occurs during the destruction of a Completion Queue (CQ), memory resources are not properly released, leading to a memory leak. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to exhaust system memory, resulting in a denial-of-service (DoS) condition. The impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven yet.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As a workaround, users can apply a patch or backport the fix to their current Kernel version. However, this requires advanced knowledge and understanding of the Kernel codebase. It is recommended to consult official documentation or seek assistance from experienced Kernel developers or administrators for guidance on applying patches or backporting the fix.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the memory leak vulnerability in the mlx5_core_destroy_cq() error path of the net/mlx5e module in the Linux Kernel can potentially lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition. It is crucial to update the Kernel to version v5.15 or later to ensure the fix is applied. Applying patches or backporting the fix can also be considered, but it requires advanced knowledge and expertise. For further support and assistance with vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The impact of this vulnerability could potentially lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) condition by exhausting system memory. However, the actual impact and attack plausibility have not been proven yet.

The vulnerability was introduced in version v3.11 of the Linux Kernel by commit e126ba97dba9edeb6fafa3665b5f8497fc9cdf8c. It is present in all versions between v3.11 and v5.15 (inclusive).

Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v5.15 and later. It is recommended to update to the latest stable version of the Kernel to ensure the fix is applied.

Yes, it is possible to apply a patch or backport the fix to earlier versions of the Kernel. However, this requires advanced knowledge and understanding of the Kernel codebase. It is recommended to consult official documentation or seek assistance from experienced Kernel developers or administrators for guidance on applying patches or backporting the fix.

You can find more information about this vulnerability, including the source and references, in the Open Source Vulnerability Database (OSVDB) maintained by the Cloud Security Alliance. The specific vulnerability ID is UVI-2021-1002151.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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