SB2023072449 - Observable discrepancy in Linux kernel



SB2023072449 - Observable discrepancy in Linux kernel

Published: July 24, 2023 Updated: June 21, 2024

Security Bulletin ID SB2023072449
Severity
Low
Patch available
YES
Number of vulnerabilities 1
Exploitation vector Local access
Highest impact Code execution

Breakdown by Severity

Low 100%
  • Low
  • Medium
  • High
  • Critical

Description

This security bulletin contains information about 1 security vulnerability.


1) Observable discrepancy (CVE-ID: CVE-2023-3640)

The vulnerability allows a local user to execute arbitrary code.

A possible unauthorized memory access flaw was found in the Linux kernel's cpu_entry_area mapping of X86 CPU data to memory, where a user may guess the location of exception stacks or other important data. Based on the previous CVE-2023-0597, the 'Randomize per-cpu entry area' feature was implemented in /arch/x86/mm/cpu_entry_area.c, which works through the init_cea_offsets() function when KASLR is enabled. However, despite this feature, there is still a risk of per-cpu entry area leaks. This issue could allow a local user to gain access to some important data with memory in an expected location and potentially escalate their privileges on the system.


Remediation

Install update from vendor's website.