Linux Kernel tcp_recvmsg() net_dma Code Denial of Service Vulnerability [CVE-2019-3837]

CVE Number – CVE-2019-3837

A vulnerability in the tcp_recvmsg() function of the Linux Kernel could allow a local attacker to gain elevated privileges or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system. The vulnerability is due to a memory leak condition that exists in the net_dma code of the tcp_recvmsg() function of the affected software. An attacker could exploit the vulnerability by accessing the system and calling the recvmsg() function on the targeted system. A successful exploit could cause memory leak condition that the attacker could use to gain elevated privileges or cause a DoS condition on the targeted system. 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.

Analysis

• To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have user-level access to the targeted system. This access requirement could reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.

Safeguards

• 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.

Vendor Announcements

• Kernel.org has released a git commit at the following link: commit 77873803363c9e831fc1d1e6895c084279090c22

Fixed Software

• Kernel.org has released a software patch at the following link: net_dma: simple removal