Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in Linux Kernel Packages
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2016-6787: kernel/events/core.c in the performance subsystem in the Linux kernel before 4.0 mismanages locks during certain migrations, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka Android internal bug... Affects linux versions 3.11.0-12.19 – 3.13.0-98.145. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of Linux operating systems, responsible for managing hardware resources and providing essential services to applications. It is highly modular, allowing for various configurations and optimizations. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel, specifically those prior to version 4.0, where a flaw in the performance subsystem can lead to privilege escalation for local users.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-6787, originates from improper lock management during certain migrations within the performance subsystem of the Linux kernel. This flaw allows local users to execute crafted applications that can exploit this weakness, potentially granting them elevated privileges. The ramifications of this vulnerability are significant, as it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive system resources and data, compromising the overall security of the affected systems.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can limit access to the affected systems by restricting local user permissions and monitoring application behavior. However, this does not eliminate the vulnerability and is not a substitute for applying the necessary updates.
Conclusion
CVE-2016-6787 is a critical vulnerability affecting the Linux kernel that can lead to privilege escalation for local users. It is essential to update to the latest kernel versions to mitigate this risk. Users should also consider using tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in their applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2016-6787 is a privilege escalation vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows local users to gain elevated privileges through crafted applications.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file, you can check for vulnerabilities like CVE-2016-6787.
The vulnerability can allow unauthorized users to gain elevated privileges, leading to potential data breaches and system compromises.
Yes, users should update their Linux kernel packages to versions 4.0 or higher, which contain the necessary patches to address this vulnerability.
If immediate updates are not possible, restrict local user access and monitor system activity as a temporary measure until the update can be applied.
References
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