CVE-2017-14991 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

In the Linux kernel before version 4.13.4, a vulnerability exists in the sg_ioctl function that can be exploited by local users to access uninitialized kernel heap-memory locations and retrieve sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2017-14991

This CVE identifies a security flaw in the Linux kernel that allows unauthorized users to obtain sensitive data.

What is CVE-2017-14991?

The sg_ioctl function in drivers/scsi/sg.c in the Linux kernel before 4.13.4 enables local users to access uninitialized kernel heap-memory locations by making an SG_GET_REQUEST_TABLE ioctl call for /dev/sg0.

The Impact of CVE-2017-14991

The vulnerability allows local users to retrieve sensitive information from uninitialized kernel heap-memory locations, potentially leading to unauthorized access to confidential data.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-14991

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The sg_ioctl function in the Linux kernel before 4.13.4 permits local users to obtain sensitive information from uninitialized kernel heap-memory locations via an SG_GET_REQUEST_TABLE ioctl call for /dev/sg0.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected systems: Linux kernel versions before 4.13.4
Affected component: sg_ioctl function in drivers/scsi/sg.c

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local users through the SG_GET_REQUEST_TABLE ioctl call for /dev/sg0, allowing them to access uninitialized kernel heap-memory locations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-14991 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive system resources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights.

Patching and Updates

Update the Linux kernel to version 4.13.4 or newer to eliminate the vulnerability and enhance system security.