Linux Kernel BPF Verifier Out-of-Bounds Memory Access Vulnerability [CVE-2018-18445]
CVE Number – CVE-2018-18445
A vulnerability in the Berkeley Packet Filter (BPF) verifier of the Linux Kernel could allow a local attacker to access sensitive information, escalate privileges, or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system.
The vulnerability is in the adjust_scalar_min_max_vals function, as defined in the kernel/bpf/verifier.csource code file of the affected software, and exists because the BPF verifier performs improper memory operations. A local attacker could exploit this vulnerability by triggering the BPF verifier to mishandle 32-bit right shifts on a targeted system. A successful exploit could cause an out-of-bounds memory access condition, which could allow the attacker to access sensitive information, escalate privileges, or cause a DoS condition on the targeted system.
Kernel.org has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.
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To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have local access to the targeted system. This access requirement may reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.
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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 released a changelog at the following link: ChangeLog 4.18.13
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Kernel.org released software updates at the following link: Linux Kernel 4.18.13 and later
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.