In the Linux kernel, a high-severity vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-50073 has been reported. This vulnerability allows for a use-after-free condition in the n_gsm driver, specifically in the gsm_cleanup_mux function. The kernel version impacted includes versions prior to 6.1.114, as well as versions from 6.2 to 6.6.58 and from 6.7 to 6.11.5, along with release candidates for 6.12.
The severity of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a CVSS score of 7.8. This rating indicates a significant risk to organizations, particularly those utilizing affected versions of the Linux kernel. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate associated risks.
Current data indicates that there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability, and it has not been included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, the potential for exploitation remains a concern, especially given the nature of the vulnerability.
Defenders must act promptly to safeguard their systems against possible exploitation. Regular updates and monitoring of kernel versions will be essential in addressing this vulnerability effectively.
Vulnerability Details
According to the official description, this vulnerability allows for a use-after-free condition in the Linux kernel's n_gsm driver, specifically within the function gsm_cleanup_mux. The problem arises due to improper memory management, allowing multiple threads to free the same memory, leading to potential exploitation.
The CVSS version 3.1 metrics for this vulnerability are as follows: Attack Vector: LOCAL, Attack Complexity: LOW, Privileges Required: LOW, User Interaction: NONE, Confidentiality Impact: HIGH, Integrity Impact: HIGH, and Availability Impact: HIGH.
The affected product is the Linux kernel, specifically the various versions outlined in the configurations section.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2024-50073 stems from a use-after-free condition in the n_gsm driver of the Linux kernel. This issue allows attackers to access freed memory, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or data corruption.
The attack vector is local, requiring attackers to have access to the system. The attack complexity is classified as low, and privileges required are also low, indicating that an attacker with basic access could exploit this vulnerability. No user interaction is required for exploitation.
This vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as it allows an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify system states, and disrupt service availability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive information, potential system compromise, and service disruptions. Given the high CVSS score of 7.8, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
The potential blast radius encompasses all systems running affected versions of the Linux kernel. Organizations operating in critical sectors should be particularly vigilant, as exploitation could lead to severe operational consequences.
The urgency for remediation is high. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects the Linux kernel across several versions: all versions prior to 6.1.114, from 6.2 to 6.6.58, from 6.7 to 6.11.5, and release candidates 6.12:rc1, 6.12:rc2, and 6.12:rc3.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should implement the following remediation steps:
1. Upgrade to the latest version of the Linux kernel that addresses this vulnerability.
2. If immediate upgrading is not possible, consider applying the patches available through the links provided.
3. Engage in continuous security testing to identify any potential weaknesses that may arise during this transition.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor for the following indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability:
1. Logs indicating unexpected memory access patterns.
2. Anomalous behavior in the n_gsm driver.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability sheds light on critical aspects of memory management within the Linux kernel. The occurrence of use-after-free vulnerabilities highlights the importance of robust memory handling practices.
Security teams should take this incident as a reminder to regularly review their memory management practices and consider implementing additional safeguards, such as memory protection mechanisms.
Adopting a proactive approach to security, including regular audits and penetration testing, can significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities being exploited in the future.
For further insights into enhancing your organization's security posture, consider reading our blog on penetration testing methodology and how to implement effective security measures.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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