Linux Kernel ext4_fill_super Function Denial of Service Vulnerability [CVE-2018-1094]
CVE Number – CVE-2018-1094
A vulnerability in the ext4_fill_super function of the Linux Kernel could allow a local attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on an affected system.
The vulnerability exists because the affected software does not always initialize the crc32c checksum driver when the ext4_fill_super function, as defined in the fs/ext4/super.c source code file, is used. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by mounting a customized ext4 image to the affected system. An exploit could trigger a NULL pointer dereference condition in the ext4/xattr.c:ext4_xattr_inode_hash() function of the affected software and cause a kernel panic, resulting in a DoS condition.
Proof-of-concept code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.
Kernel.org has confirmed the vulnerability and released software patches.
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To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have local access and be a privileged user on the affected system. These requirements 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 affected systems.
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Kernel.org has released a bug report at the following link: Bug 199183
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Kernel.org has released software patches at the following links: ext4: don’t allow r/w mounts if metadata blocks overlap the superblock and ext4: always initialize the crc32c checksum driver
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.