In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: sunrpc: fix one UAF issue caused by sunrpc kernel tcp socket. This vulnerability allows a use-after-free condition that could lead to system instability or unauthorized access.
With a CVSS score of 7.8, this vulnerability is classified as high severity, indicating significant potential impact on affected systems. Risk to organizations includes the possibility of local attackers exploiting this vulnerability to gain elevated privileges or disrupt services.
Currently, there is no public exploit confirmed for this vulnerability, but the nature of the issue suggests that it could be exploited if not addressed promptly. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
The vulnerability was published on December 27, 2024, with a modified status indicating that it has received updates in the kernel. Organizations using affected versions must act swiftly to safeguard their environments.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability allows a use-after-free condition in the Linux kernel's sunrpc module, specifically within the tcp_write_timer_handler function. This could potentially result in unauthorized access or system crashes.
The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-416, which pertains to use-after-free vulnerabilities. Organizations should take note that the attack vector is local, requiring low privileges and no user interaction.
The affected component is the Linux kernel, and the issue has been tracked under CVE-2024-53168. The publication date of the CVE was December 27, 2024.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of the vulnerability lies within the management of kernel memory for TCP sockets in the sunrpc module. Specifically, the issue arises when a TCP socket is improperly freed while a timer is still active.
The attack vector is local, as a user with low privileges can exploit the flaw. The attack complexity is low, meaning that the vulnerability could be easily leveraged. The affected systems suffer high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment risk associated with this vulnerability includes potential system crashes and unauthorized access. The blast radius could affect systems running the Linux kernel, especially in environments where multiple users have local access.
Organizations should assess their use of the Linux kernel and prioritize remediation efforts based on the high CVSS score. With the known exploitation status of no confirmed public exploits, it is crucial to remain vigilant.
Given the high severity, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of the Linux kernel are affected by this vulnerability: versions 4.2 to less than 6.6.64, 6.7 to less than 6.11.11, and 6.12 to less than 6.12.2.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply the latest patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers. Affected users should upgrade to versions 6.12.2 or later to mitigate this vulnerability.
If patches are not immediately available, consider implementing network isolation measures to limit access to vulnerable systems until a patch can be applied. Regular monitoring of system logs for unusual activity is also recommended.
Penetration testing can also help validate the effectiveness of applied patches.
Detection Guidance
Monitor logs for signs of exploitation attempts. Look for unusual TCP traffic patterns or kernel crashes that may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.
Behavioral anomalies related to network namespace management should also be scrutinized.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability highlights a pattern of local vulnerabilities in kernel space that could be leveraged by attackers with local access. Security teams should remain vigilant and incorporate lessons learned from this incident into their security protocols.
This incident underscores the importance of regular patching and the role of continuous security assessments.
Penetration testing methodology should be reviewed regularly to ensure defenses remain robust against similar vulnerabilities.
A vulnerability management program should also be implemented to proactively address potential threats.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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