In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: af_packet: avoid erroring out after sock_init_data() in packet_create(). After sock_init_data(), the allocated sk object is attached to the provided sock object. On error, packet_create() frees the sk object leaving the dangling pointer in the sock object on return. Some other code may try to use this pointer and cause use-after-free.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.8, categorizing it as high severity. The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data due to high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Given that this vulnerability is classified with a local attack vector and low complexity, attackers may leverage this flaw to execute malicious code if they have local access to the system.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
No public exploit has been confirmed, and the vulnerability is not listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog.
Vulnerability Details
The Linux kernel vulnerability is associated with CWE-416, indicating a use-after-free condition. The official description states that the allocated sk object is freed while a pointer remains in the sock object, which may lead to use-after-free issues. The vulnerability affects all versions of the Linux kernel prior to the vendor patch.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of memory allocations within the packet_create() function. Specifically, a failure in sock_init_data() leads to the freeing of the sk object while still leaving a dangling pointer in the sock object.
The attack vector is local, meaning an attacker must have access to the local system to exploit this vulnerability. The attack complexity is low, requiring minimal effort to execute the attack, and privileges required are also low, allowing any local user to potentially exploit it. User interaction is not required, as the flaw can be triggered automatically.
The vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making it severe in terms of potential consequences.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations running vulnerable versions of the Linux kernel face significant risks, including system crashes, unauthorized data access, and potential exploitation by local attackers. The blast radius could extend to sensitive applications relying on the kernel, affecting overall system stability and security.
Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle to mitigate risks associated with potential exploitation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability affects all versions of the Linux kernel prior to the vendor patch, including versions earlier than 5.4.287, between 5.5 and 5.10.231, between 5.11 and 5.15.174, between 5.16 and 6.1.120, between 6.2 and 6.6.66, and between 6.7 and 6.12.5.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply the latest patches from the Linux kernel to remediate this vulnerability. If immediate patching is not possible, consider implementing temporary workarounds, such as disabling features that utilize the affected components.
For further security validation and to ensure comprehensive protection, organizations may consider engaging in penetration testing services.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual memory access patterns and review system behavior for anomalies related to the affected kernel components.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2024-56606 highlights the ongoing need for rigorous testing and validation of memory management in kernel developments. This vulnerability exemplifies the critical impact that memory handling errors can have on system security.
Security teams should use this incident as a reminder to implement robust penetration testing methodology and ensure timely security patches are applied.
Furthermore, utilizing a vulnerability management program can help organizations proactively identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities.
Finally, it is crucial to foster an organizational culture of security awareness and continuous improvement to mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities like this.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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