In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-53243 has been resolved. This vulnerability allows for improper handling of RAID1C23/DUP in the btrfs file system. The function `btrfs_reduce_alloc_profile` is expected to return a single allocation profile flag, but a failure in this process may lead to critical issues, including transaction aborts and the need to remount the filesystem in read-only mode.
The severity level of this vulnerability is classified as medium, with a CVSS score of 5.5. This is significant as it indicates that organizations using affected Linux kernel versions may experience operational disruptions due to filesystem errors if not properly addressed.
Risk to organizations includes potential data loss and service interruptions as a result of transaction aborts. The vulnerability primarily affects local systems, requiring low privileges to exploit, thus increasing the likelihood of abuse in an environment where users have local access.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately, as the affected versions of the Linux kernel could lead to severe filesystem stability issues.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2023-53243 highlights that the function `btrfs_reduce_alloc_profile` was not updated to handle new allocation profile flags, resulting in potential multiple flags being returned. This can occur during a balance operation between unhandled profiles, leading to transaction aborts.
The vulnerability is present in the Linux kernel versions starting from 5.5 up until but not including version 5.10.188, as well as in subsequent versions until 6.4.4. This includes versions 5.11 to 5.15.121 and 5.16 to 6.1.39.
The vulnerability's CVSS score of 5.5 indicates a medium severity level, suggesting that while the risk is moderate, it could still lead to significant operational impacts if exploited.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the inadequate handling of RAID1C23/DUP profiles within the btrfs file system. The `btrfs_reduce_alloc_profile` function checks for a running balance to determine the correct allocation profile but fails to account for newly introduced profile flags.
The attack vector is local, requiring a low level of privileges to exploit. The complexity of the attack is classified as low, indicating that an attacker could easily leverage this vulnerability in a local context. Notably, user interaction is not required to exploit this vulnerability.
The availability impact is assessed as high, meaning that successful exploitation could lead to significant service disruptions. However, the confidentiality and integrity impacts are rated as none, suggesting that data exposure is not a concern with this vulnerability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2023-53243 is particularly concerning for organizations running affected versions of the Linux kernel. The potential for transaction aborts could disrupt critical services and lead to data loss, making this a priority issue for system administrators.
This vulnerability matters to organizations due to the implications for system stability and reliability. Systems utilizing RAID configurations must remain vigilant, as the impact could extend beyond immediate functionality to include broader system performance and reliability.
The urgency for addressing this vulnerability is further underscored by its CVSS score of 5.5, which indicates a medium level of threat. Organizations are advised to incorporate remediation into their patch management cycles.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of the Linux kernel include: - 5.5 to <5.10.188 - 5.11 to <5.15.121 - 5.16 to <6.1.39 - 6.2 to <6.4.4
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to address CVE-2023-53243. Ensure that systems are updated to versions that resolve this vulnerability. If immediate patching is not feasible, consider implementing configuration hardening and network controls to limit access to vulnerable systems.
For more detailed guidance on securing your systems, organizations can utilize resources such as penetration testing to identify potential weaknesses and ensure compliance with security best practices.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of CVE-2023-53243, organizations should monitor logs for transaction abort messages related to btrfs. Additionally, look for anomalies in filesystem behavior that could indicate improper allocation profile returns.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2023-53243 represents an ongoing challenge for Linux kernel users, especially concerning file system stability. It highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date systems and proactively addressing vulnerabilities. Security teams should ensure regular updates and consider implementing a vulnerability management program to effectively manage risks.
Additionally, organizations may benefit from engaging in penetration testing periodically to assess the security posture of their systems, especially when major updates are implemented.
Lastly, organizations should review incident response plans and ensure they are prepared to respond to potential filesystem issues arising from this vulnerability.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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