CVE-2017-18550 : What You Need to Know
Discover the impact of CVE-2017-18550 in the Linux kernel before version 4.13. Learn about the vulnerability exposing kernel stack memory and how to mitigate the risk with updates and secure practices.
In the Linux kernel version prior to 4.13, a vulnerability was identified in drivers/scsi/aacraid/commctrl.c. This vulnerability could potentially expose the kernel stack memory as the hbainfo structure is not properly initialized in aac_get_hba_info.
Understanding CVE-2017-18550
An issue was discovered in drivers/scsi/aacraid/commctrl.c in the Linux kernel before 4.13. There is potential exposure of kernel stack memory because aac_get_hba_info does not initialize the hbainfo structure.
What is CVE-2017-18550?
- Vulnerability in drivers/scsi/aacraid/commctrl.c in Linux kernel before version 4.13
- Exposes kernel stack memory due to improper initialization of hbainfo structure
The Impact of CVE-2017-18550
- Potential risk of exposing sensitive kernel stack memory
Technical Details of CVE-2017-18550
Vulnerability Description
- Located in drivers/scsi/aacraid/commctrl.c in Linux kernel
- Vulnerability arises from improper initialization of hbainfo structure
Affected Systems and Versions
- Linux kernel versions before 4.13
Exploitation Mechanism
- Exploitation involves accessing kernel stack memory through the vulnerable hbainfo structure
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update to Linux kernel version 4.13 or newer
- Monitor official Linux kernel security updates
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly patch and update the Linux kernel
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory exposure
- Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the vulnerability