In the Linux kernel, a high-severity vulnerability has been resolved, specifically related to the driver for the Atlantic network interface. This vulnerability allows for a double free scenario in the error handling logic, where the function responsible for freeing memory could be called multiple times on the same memory area if the system encounters memory allocation errors under stress.
The underlying issue arises from the misuse of the ring pointer as an indicator of failure. This approach is flawed since it only pertains to the allocation and deallocation of ring data, not the ring itself, which is merely an element of an array. The resolution involves modifying the ring allocation functions to return error codes directly, simplifying error management and eliminating unnecessary calls to free memory at higher levels.
Given the CVSS score of 7.8, this vulnerability is classified as high severity. The potential risks include significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems utilizing the affected kernel versions. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to ensure their systems remain secure.
There are currently no known exploits in the wild for this vulnerability, but the nature of the issue warrants immediate attention to avoid possible future exploitation. It is crucial for organizations to stay vigilant and implement the necessary patches as soon as they are available.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-52664 in the Linux kernel affects various versions and has been classified under CWE-415, which pertains to 'Double Free'. The CVSS version is 3.1, with a vector string of 'CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H'.
Affected products include the Linux kernel, with specific vulnerable versions being all versions prior to 6.1.77, versions from 6.2 to 6.6.16, and versions from 6.7 to 6.7.4. The publication date for this vulnerability was May 17, 2024, with the last modification on January 7, 2025.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the error handling logic of the Atlantic network driver within the Linux kernel. The attack vector is local, meaning an attacker would need to have local access to the system. The attack complexity is categorized as low, indicating that exploiting this vulnerability does not require significant technical skill.
Privileges required to exploit this vulnerability are low, meaning that an attacker could take advantage of this flaw without needing elevated privileges. Furthermore, user interaction is not required to exploit this vulnerability. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all classified as high, indicating that successful exploitation could lead to severe consequences for affected systems.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations deploying Linux kernel versions affected by CVE-2023-52664 face significant risks. The potential for denial of service, unauthorized access, and data breaches is elevated, given the high CVSS score. Additionally, the fact that exploitation does not require specialized skills makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous.
The urgency for remediation is high. Organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability during their upcoming patch cycles. Failure to address this issue promptly could lead to severe consequences for the integrity and security of their systems.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of the Linux kernel include all versions prior to 6.1.77, versions from 6.2 to 6.6.16, and versions from 6.7 to 6.7.4. Organizations should ensure they are running patched versions to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should patch their Linux kernel installations to versions that are not affected by CVE-2023-52664. The patches are available from the Linux kernel repository and should be applied as soon as possible. For those unable to immediately apply patches, temporary workarounds may include limiting access to the kernel or implementing additional monitoring to detect anomalies.
For further assistance and resources, organizations may consider engaging in penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities within their systems.
Detection Guidance
To effectively monitor for potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should review system logs for unusual memory allocation patterns and free calls. Behavioral anomalies in network traffic, particularly related to the Atlantic network interface, should also be scrutinized.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2023-52664 highlights the need for organizations to maintain updated systems and robust patch management practices. This vulnerability is an example of how local vulnerabilities can lead to serious security issues if left unaddressed.
Organizations can learn from this incident about the importance of proactive security measures, including regular vulnerability assessments and vulnerability management programs. Strategic defensive measures should be prioritized to mitigate risks associated with kernel vulnerabilities.
In addition, organizations are encouraged to review their penetration testing methodology and consider enhancements to their incident response strategies to effectively address exploitation attempts.
Finally, organizations are urged to stay informed on emerging threats and vulnerabilities through consistent monitoring and engagement with security communities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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