Linux Kernel __del_reloc_root() Function Invalid Pointer Dereference Vulnerability [CVE-2018-14609]
CVE number – CVE-2018-14609
A vulnerability in the __del_reloc_root() function of the Linux Kernel could allow a local attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system.
The vulnerability exists in the __del_reloc_root() function, as defined in the fs/btrfs/relocation.c source code file of the affected software, and is due to an invalid pointer dereference condition that could occur when a corrupted Btrfs filesystem image is mounted. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by mounting a Btrfs image that submits malicious input to a targeted system. A successful exploit could trigger an invalid pointer dereference condition, resulting in a DoS condition.
Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.
Kernel.org has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.
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To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have user-level access to the targeted system. This access requirement may reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.
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Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to access local systems.
Administrators are advised to allow only privileged users to access administration or management systems.
Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.
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Kernel.org has released a bug report at the following link: Bug 199833
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Kernel.org has released a patch at the following link: btrfs: relocation: Only remove reloc rb_trees if reloc control has been initialized
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.