CVE-2010-3904 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability affecting the Linux Kernel. This vulnerability allows local users to gain privileges through improper input validation in the Reliable Datagram Sockets (RDS) protocol implementation. Specifically, the rds_page_copy_user function in net/rds/page.c fails to adequately validate addresses from user space, making it possible to exploit the sendmsg and recvmsg system calls.
This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.8, indicating a significant risk. Attackers can exploit this flaw without requiring user interaction, and the impact includes high confidentiality, integrity, and availability risks. Given that the affected product is end-of-life, organizations should disconnect any systems still in use to mitigate risk.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The vulnerability was disclosed on December 6, 2010, and has since been analyzed for remediation. The lack of proper validation in this kernel implementation poses serious risks to systems running vulnerable versions.
As this vulnerability has been included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog since May 12, 2023, organizations must take this threat seriously and act swiftly to prevent exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2010-3904 states: 'The rds_page_copy_user function in net/rds/page.c in the Reliable Datagram Sockets (RDS) protocol implementation in the Linux kernel before 2.6.36 does not properly validate addresses obtained from user space, which allows local users to gain privileges via crafted use of the sendmsg and recvmsg system calls.'
The vulnerability falls under the CWE-1284 classification, which pertains to improper input validation. Given the high CVSS score of 7.8, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to organizations using affected systems, especially since it can be exploited by local users.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2010-3904 lies in the inadequate validation of user-supplied addresses within the RDS implementation. This flaw enables local users to craft specific messages that can manipulate system calls, thereby escalating their privileges.
The attack vector is local, requiring low complexity and minimal privileges for exploitation, which further emphasizes the risk it poses. There is no requirement for user interaction, making it easier for attackers to exploit the vulnerability without detection.
With high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, the potential blast radius is expansive. This vulnerability can affect various distributions of the Linux kernel, particularly those prior to version 2.6.36.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access and data manipulation. The exposure of local users to escalate privileges can lead to significant breaches, particularly in environments where sensitive data is managed. The urgency for remediation is critical, as the vulnerability is part of the KEV catalog.
Organizations should assess the deployment of affected systems and prioritize patching or disconnecting those that remain in use. Given the potential for widespread exploitation, this vulnerability requires immediate attention.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects all versions of the Linux Kernel prior to 2.6.36, along with specific versions of Ubuntu, OpenSUSE, Red Hat, and VMware ESXi products. The impacted systems include:
• Linux Kernel (before 2.6.36) • Ubuntu Linux 6.06, 8.04, 9.04, 9.10, 10.04, 10.10 • OpenSUSE 11.2, 11.3 • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5.0, 6.0 • VMware ESXi 3.5, 4.0, 4.1, 5.0
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. Given that the impacted product is end-of-life, it should be disconnected if still in use. For those systems that cannot be disconnected, consider implementing network controls to limit access to vulnerable services.
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations must ensure they are running an updated version of the Linux Kernel. For further security assessments, organizations can utilize penetration testing to identify potential weaknesses in their systems.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for any unusual activities related to the sendmsg and recvmsg system calls. Behavioral anomalies should be investigated, particularly those that might indicate privilege escalation attempts. Additionally, network signatures related to RDS traffic should be examined for irregularities.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2010-3904 highlights the importance of input validation within system protocols. Security teams must learn from this incident and ensure robust validation processes are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from arising in the future.
Organizations should review their security posture regularly and adopt a proactive approach to vulnerability management. For guidance on effective vulnerability management, refer to vulnerability management programs and consider engaging in red teaming exercises to assess their defenses against potential threats.
By maintaining awareness of such vulnerabilities and implementing strategic defenses, organizations can better safeguard their systems against exploitation.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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