CVE-2017-16532 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-16532, a vulnerability in the Linux kernel allowing local users to trigger a denial of service via a crafted USB device. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
A crafted USB device can cause a denial of service (NULL pointer dereference and system crash) or potentially have other unspecified effects through the get_endpoints function in drivers/usb/misc/usbtest.c in the Linux kernel up to version 4.13.11 when used by local users.
Understanding CVE-2017-16532
This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited by local users through a specially crafted USB device, leading to a denial of service or other potential impacts.
What is CVE-2017-16532?
The vulnerability in the Linux kernel allows local users to trigger a denial of service or other unspecified effects by exploiting the get_endpoints function with a malicious USB device.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16532
The impact of this vulnerability includes a system crash due to a NULL pointer dereference, potentially leading to a denial of service condition or other adverse effects on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16532
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The get_endpoints function in drivers/usb/misc/usbtest.c in the Linux kernel through version 4.13.11 is susceptible to exploitation by local users, resulting in a denial of service via a crafted USB device.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected System: Linux kernel
- Affected Version: Up to 4.13.11
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by local users utilizing a specially crafted USB device to trigger a NULL pointer dereference, leading to a system crash or other potential impacts.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16532 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
- Monitor and restrict USB device usage on critical systems.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security training for users to raise awareness of USB device security risks.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by the Linux kernel maintainers to mitigate the risk of exploitation.