A critical use-after-free vulnerability was discovered in the Linux kernel's netfilter subsystem, specifically in the file net/netfilter/nf_tables_api.c. This flaw is attributed to mishandled error handling with NFT_MSG_NEWRULE, which can lead to the use of a dangling pointer in the same transaction. Consequently, this allows a local attacker with user access to exploit the vulnerability and escalate privileges. Given its high severity, as indicated by a CVSS score of 7.8, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
The vulnerability was officially published on June 28, 2023, and has been classified as CVE-2023-3390. The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it poses risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making it imperative for organizations to take immediate action.
The urgency of addressing this vulnerability cannot be overstated. With a high likelihood of exploitation, organizations should ensure they are running patched versions of the Linux kernel to mitigate potential risks.
This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it can be exploited without requiring any user interaction, thereby increasing its risk profile. Organizations using affected versions of the Linux kernel should act quickly to safeguard their systems.
The recommended action is to upgrade past commit 1240eb93f0616b21c675416516ff3d74798fdc97 to eliminate this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The CVE-2023-3390 vulnerability is categorized under the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) as CWE-416, which pertains to use-after-free vulnerabilities. The vulnerability allows an attacker to escalate privileges within the Linux kernel's netfilter subsystem, exploiting inadequate error handling.
The CVSS score of 7.8 indicates a high severity level, reflecting the potential impact of a successful exploit. The attack vector is classified as local, and the complexity is low, requiring only low privileges to exploit.
The vulnerability affects the Linux kernel across multiple versions, specifically those running between 3.16 and 6.3.9, and also impacts several NetApp products including the h300s, h410c, h410s, h500s, and h700s.
Organizations using the affected versions of the Linux kernel should reference the official patch commit to secure their systems.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2023-3390 lies in mishandling error conditions within the netfilter subsystem, which leads to a failure to correctly manage memory deallocation. This results in the potential use of a dangling pointer, creating a scenario where an attacker can exploit the flaw to escalate privileges.
The attack vector is local, meaning attackers must have access to the system to exploit the vulnerability. The complexity of the attack is low, and it does not require any user interaction. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all high, as the exploit can compromise system-level permissions.
Given the low privileges required and the lack of user interaction, the vulnerability presents a significant threat, particularly to systems that have not been patched.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with CVE-2023-3390 is substantial, as the vulnerability could allow unauthorized users to gain elevated privileges, compromising the entire system. This risk is amplified in environments where the Linux kernel is widely deployed, such as in server infrastructure and embedded systems.
Organizations should take immediate action to patch affected systems, as the vulnerability is exploitable without user interaction. The blast radius of a successful exploit could extend to sensitive data and critical system processes, making it essential for organizations to address this vulnerability in their patch cycle.
With the CVSS score indicating a high severity level, and the urgency of the situation reflected in the actively exploited status, organizations must prioritize remediation efforts.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects various versions of the Linux kernel, specifically between versions 3.16 and 6.3.9. It also impacts several NetApp products, including the h300s, h410c, h410s, h500s, and h700s. Organizations running these versions should take immediate steps to update their systems.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-3390, organizations should apply the patch referenced in commit 1240eb93f0616b21c675416516ff3d74798fdc97. This patch addresses the vulnerability and prevents potential exploitation.
In cases where immediate patching is not possible, organizations should consider implementing configuration hardening and network controls to limit access to vulnerable systems. Continuous monitoring for unusual behavior and signs of exploitation is also recommended.
For further guidance on ensuring security in Linux environments, organizations may refer to our comprehensive resources on Linux security assessments.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of exploitation attempts, particularly unusual access patterns and error messages related to netfilter operations. Additionally, behavioral anomalies within the kernel's functionality may signal attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
Network signatures that identify abnormal packet flow could also be valuable in detecting potential exploit attempts. Organizations should ensure that system changes are logged and reviewed regularly.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2023-3390 highlights the ongoing challenges within the Linux ecosystem, where vulnerabilities in critical components can lead to severe consequences. The presence of a use-after-free vulnerability in such a foundational subsystem underscores the need for rigorous testing and vulnerability management practices.
Security teams should consider implementing proactive measures, including regular updates and assessments of their Linux environments. For comprehensive recommendations on managing vulnerabilities, organizations can refer to our article on vulnerability management programs.
Moreover, organizations should remain vigilant against emerging threats and trends that may exploit weaknesses in their systems. To stay informed, security teams can explore our insights on ransomware attacks and other evolving vulnerabilities.
By adopting a proactive security posture, organizations can better safeguard their operations against potential exploitation of vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-3390.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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