CVE-2019-20794: linux-libc-dev - Resource Exhaustion Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2019-20794: An issue was discovered in the Linux kernel 4.18 through 5.6.11 when unprivileged user namespaces are allowed. Affects linux versions 5.10.103-1 – 6.9.9-1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
linux-libc-dev is a package that provides the header files for the Linux kernel. These header files are necessary for compiling C programs that interact with the kernel. The package is an essential component for developers and system administrators working on Linux systems. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in versions 6.1.90-1 of linux-libc-dev that can lead to resource exhaustion.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2019-20794, exists when unprivileged user namespaces are allowed in the Linux kernel versions 4.18 through 5.6.11. An attacker can create their own PID namespace and mount a FUSE filesystem. If the userspace component of this FUSE filesystem is terminated by killing the PID namespace's pid 1, it results in a hung task and permanent resource lockup until a system reboot. This can lead to resource exhaustion, potentially impacting system performance and availability.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. However, disabling unprivileged user namespaces or restricting their usage to trusted users can reduce the risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in linux-libc-dev versions 6.1.90-1 can result in resource exhaustion, potentially impacting system performance and availability. It is crucial to update the package to a patched version and consider additional mitigation measures, such as disabling or restricting unprivileged user namespaces. For further assistance in vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
linux-libc-dev is a package that provides header files for the Linux kernel, necessary for compiling C programs that interact with the kernel.
Versions 6.1.90-1 of linux-libc-dev are affected by this vulnerability.
The vulnerability can lead to resource exhaustion, potentially impacting system performance and availability.
To fix this vulnerability, update the linux-libc-dev package to a patched version and consider disabling or restricting unprivileged user namespaces.
While no specific workaround is mentioned, disabling or restricting unprivileged user namespaces can reduce the risk of exploitation.
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