Divide by Zero Vulnerability in Linux Kernel
Summary
GSD-2022-1002487: video: fbdev: cirrusfb: check pixclock to avoid divide by zero. Affects Kernel versions < c656d04247a2654ede5cead2ecbf83431dad5261. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, responsible for managing system resources and providing an interface for applications to interact with the hardware. It is widely used in various devices, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems. The vulnerability identified in the Linux Kernel affects the video subsystem, specifically the cirrusfb driver. This driver is responsible for supporting the Cirrus Logic graphics controller, which is commonly found in virtual machines and older hardware. 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 (DoS) condition. By providing a specially crafted input, an attacker can trigger a divide by zero error, leading to a system crash or hang. This vulnerability can be exploited remotely if the affected system is exposed to untrusted input over a network. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a loss of availability and potentially impact the stability of the entire system. It is important to note that the impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
The divide by zero vulnerability in the cirrusfb driver has been addressed in the Linux Kernel version v4.9.311. To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Linux Kernel to a version that includes the fix. Users can obtain the updated kernel from the official Linux Kernel repository or through their respective Linux distribution's package management system. It is crucial to regularly update the kernel to ensure the latest security patches are applied.
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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 support for the Cirrus Logic graphics controller and may impact the functionality of systems relying on this driver.
Conclusion
The divide by zero vulnerability in the cirrusfb driver of the Linux Kernel can lead to a denial of service (DoS) condition and potential system instability. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to a version that includes the fix to mitigate this vulnerability. If immediate updating is not feasible, disabling the cirrusfb driver can serve as a temporary workaround. 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 hang, causing a denial of service (DoS) condition. It may also impact the stability of the entire system.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely if the affected system is exposed to untrusted input over a network.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in the Linux Kernel version v4.9.311. It is recommended to update the kernel to a version that includes the fix.
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 support for the Cirrus Logic graphics controller.
No, the impact and attack plausibility of this vulnerability have not been proven. Further analysis and testing may be required to assess the actual risk.
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