CVE-2017-18255 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2017-18255 was published on March 31, 2018, and affects the Linux kernel prior to version 4.11. The vulnerability in the perf_cpu_time_max_percent_handler function allows local users to trigger a denial of service or potentially cause other unknown effects through the use of a large input value, leading to an inaccurate calculation of the sample rate.

Understanding CVE-2017-18255

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2017-18255 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2017-18255?

The function perf_cpu_time_max_percent_handler in the core.c file of the Linux kernel before version 4.11 enables local users to trigger a denial of service (integer overflow) or potentially have other unknown effects through the use of a large input value. An example scenario includes an inaccurate calculation of the sample rate.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18255

The vulnerability allows local users to cause a denial of service (integer overflow) or potentially have unspecified other impacts by exploiting a large value, such as an incorrect sample-rate calculation.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18255

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2017-18255 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The perf_cpu_time_max_percent_handler function in kernel/events/core.c in the Linux kernel before 4.11 allows local users to cause a denial of service (integer overflow) or possibly have unspecified other impact via a large value, as demonstrated by an incorrect sample-rate calculation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Local users can exploit the vulnerability by providing a large input value to the perf_cpu_time_max_percent_handler function, leading to a denial of service or other unknown effects.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we discuss the steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2017-18255 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor official sources for patches and updates related to the Linux kernel.
Implement the necessary security measures to restrict access to potentially vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to ensure the inclusion of security patches.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers promptly to address the CVE-2017-18255 vulnerability.