CVE-2017-16643 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-16643, a Linux kernel vulnerability allowing local users to trigger a denial of service condition and potentially cause other impacts by exploiting an out-of-bounds read issue.
A vulnerability in the Linux kernel prior to version 4.13.11 allows local users to trigger a denial of service condition and potentially cause other impacts by exploiting an out-of-bounds read issue in the parse_hid_report_descriptor function.
Understanding CVE-2017-16643
This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited by local users to crash the system or cause other unspecified impacts.
What is CVE-2017-16643?
The vulnerability exists in the parse_hid_report_descriptor function in the Linux kernel prior to version 4.13.11, specifically in drivers/input/tablet/gtco.c. By exploiting an out-of-bounds read issue, local users can trigger a denial of service condition and potentially cause other impacts by using a specially crafted USB device.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16643
The vulnerability allows local users to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds read and system crash) or potentially have other unspecified impacts by utilizing a crafted USB device.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16643
This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The parse_hid_report_descriptor function in drivers/input/tablet/gtco.c in the Linux kernel before 4.13.11 allows local users to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds read and system crash) or possibly have unspecified other impact via a crafted USB device.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected systems: Linux kernel versions prior to 4.13.11
- Affected component: parse_hid_report_descriptor function in drivers/input/tablet/gtco.c
Exploitation Mechanism
- Local users can exploit an out-of-bounds read issue in the parse_hid_report_descriptor function
- The exploitation involves using a specially crafted USB device
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16643 requires immediate steps and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Linux kernel to version 4.13.11 or later
- Monitor and restrict USB device usage
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege for user access
- Regularly monitor and audit system logs for unusual activities
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches promptly to ensure system protection