Critical Vulnerability in linux Package: CVE-2018-20510 Exposes Sensitive Address Information
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2018-20510: The print_binder_transaction_ilocked function in drivers/android/binder.c in the Linux kernel 4.14.90 allows local users to obtain sensitive address information by reading "*from *code *flags" lines in a debugfs file. Affects linux-aws versions < 4.4.0-1054.58. Fixed in 4.4.0-1054.58. How to fix ↓
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Background
The linux package is a core component of the Ubuntu operating system, providing essential functionalities for managing system resources and hardware interfaces. It serves as the foundation for various applications and services, ensuring stability and performance. However, this package has been identified to have a vulnerability that could allow local users to access sensitive information, specifically memory addresses, through debugfs files.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-20510, originates from the print_binder_transaction_ilocked function in the Linux kernel. It allows local users to read sensitive address information by accessing specific lines in a debugfs file. This could lead to unauthorized access to memory addresses, potentially enabling further exploitation or data leakage. The vulnerability is classified with a CVSS score of 5.5, indicating a moderate risk level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.4.0-1054.58
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linux-awsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can restrict access to the debugfs filesystem or limit the permissions of users who can access it. This can be done by modifying the permissions of the /sys/kernel/debug directory to prevent unauthorized access.
Conclusion
CVE-2018-20510 is a significant vulnerability affecting the linux package in Ubuntu, allowing local users to access sensitive address information. It is crucial to update the package to the latest version to mitigate this risk. Users should also consider implementing workarounds to protect their systems until they can apply the necessary updates.
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FAQ
CVE-2018-20510 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows local users to read sensitive address information from debugfs files.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive memory addresses, which may result in further exploitation or data leakage.
Yes, a patched version of the linux package is available. Users should update to version 4.4.0-1054.58 or later.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider restricting access to the debugfs filesystem or limiting user permissions to mitigate risks.
References
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