CVE-2017-5547 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2017-5547 was published on January 20, 2017, and affects the Linux kernel version 4.9.x before 4.9.6. The vulnerability is related to the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option when interacting with drivers/hid/hid-corsair.c, potentially leading to denial of service attacks.

Understanding CVE-2017-5547

This CVE entry highlights a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that could be exploited by local users to cause a system crash, memory corruption, or other unspecified consequences.

What is CVE-2017-5547?

The issue arises from incorrect interaction with the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option in the Linux kernel, specifically within the drivers/hid/hid-corsair.c module. By utilizing multiple virtual pages for a DMA scatterlist, local users can trigger a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5547

The vulnerability allows attackers to potentially crash the system, corrupt memory, or cause other adverse effects. Exploitation by malicious actors could lead to severe disruptions in system functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5547

This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in drivers/hid/hid-corsair.c in the Linux kernel 4.9.x before 4.9.6 arises from incorrect interaction with the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option. This enables local users to initiate denial of service attacks or potentially trigger other impacts by using multiple virtual pages for a DMA scatterlist.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected System: Linux kernel version 4.9.x before 4.9.6
Affected Module: drivers/hid/hid-corsair.c

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local users through the misuse of the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option in the Linux kernel, specifically within the drivers/hid/hid-corsair.c module.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-5547, users and administrators should take immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches and updates provided by the Linux kernel maintainers promptly.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from the Linux kernel community and apply patches as soon as they are available.