CVE-2017-5987 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

QEMU (Quick Emulator) is susceptible to a denial of service vulnerability due to a flaw in the sdhci_sdma_transfer_multi_blocks function. This CVE entry provides insights into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2017-5987

QEMU's vulnerability in the sdhci_sdma_transfer_multi_blocks function can be exploited by local users with elevated privileges in the guest operating system, leading to a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2017-5987?

The vulnerability in QEMU allows attackers to manipulate the transfer mode register during a multi block transfer, causing the QEMU process to enter an infinite loop and crash, resulting in a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5987

Exploitation of this vulnerability by malicious users can lead to a complete crash of the QEMU process, disrupting the normal operation of the system and potentially causing downtime.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5987

QEMU's vulnerability in the sdhci_sdma_transfer_multi_blocks function has specific technical aspects that are crucial to understanding its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The sdhci_sdma_transfer_multi_blocks function in QEMU allows local OS guest privileged users to trigger a denial of service by manipulating the transfer mode register during multi block transfers.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the transfer mode register during a multi block transfer, attackers with elevated privileges in the guest OS can cause the QEMU process to crash, leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is essential to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2017-5987 to enhance system security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by QEMU promptly.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems to trusted users only.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities related to the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software components to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights and minimize the impact of security breaches.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and advisories from QEMU and relevant vendors.
Ensure timely application of patches to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.