CVE-2017-12146 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A race condition in the Linux kernel prior to version 4.12.1 allows local users to elevate privileges by exploiting the driver_override implementation.

Understanding CVE-2017-12146

This CVE involves a race condition in the driver_override implementation in the Linux kernel, enabling local users to escalate their privileges.

What is CVE-2017-12146?

The vulnerability arises from a race condition in the driver_override implementation in the Linux kernel before version 4.12.1. This flaw permits local users to raise their privileges by taking advantage of simultaneous read and store operations involving different overrides.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12146

The vulnerability allows local users to elevate their privileges on affected systems by exploiting the race condition in the driver_override implementation.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12146

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The driver_override implementation in drivers/base/platform.c of the Linux kernel before version 4.12.1 allows local users to gain privileges by leveraging a race condition between a read operation and a store operation involving different overrides.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected systems: Linux kernel versions before 4.12.1
Affected components: driver_override implementation

Exploitation Mechanism

The elevation of privileges is achieved by exploiting a race condition that occurs when a read operation and a store operation involving different overrides are executed simultaneously.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-12146 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Linux kernel to version 4.12.1 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict local user privileges to minimize the impact of potential exploits.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel and related components to address security vulnerabilities promptly.
Implement least privilege principles to limit the capabilities of local users and reduce the attack surface.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to fix the race condition in the driver_override implementation.
Stay informed about security bulletins and advisories to promptly address emerging vulnerabilities.