CVE-2017-8064 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2017-8064 was published on April 23, 2017, and affects versions 4.9.x and 4.10.x of the Linux kernel prior to 4.10.12. The vulnerability lies in the interaction between drivers/media/usb/dvb-usb-v2/dvb_usb_core.c and the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option, potentially leading to system crashes, memory corruption, or other unknown impacts when a local user exploits the use of multiple virtual pages for a DMA scatterlist.

Understanding CVE-2017-8064

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2017-8064 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2017-8064?

CVE-2017-8064 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel versions 4.9.x and 4.10.x before 4.10.12 that allows local users to cause a denial of service or potentially execute other unspecified impacts by leveraging the use of more than one virtual page for a DMA scatterlist.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8064

The vulnerability can result in system crashes, memory corruption, or other unknown impacts when exploited by a local user.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8064

This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2017-8064.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the incorrect interaction between drivers/media/usb/dvb-usb-v2/dvb_usb_core.c and the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option in the Linux kernel, allowing for the exploitation by local users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions: 4.9.x and 4.10.x of the Linux kernel before 4.10.12
Systems using the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a local user leveraging the use of multiple virtual pages for a DMA scatterlist.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2017-8064 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers
Monitor official sources for updates and security advisories

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access

Patching and Updates

Keep the Linux kernel up to date with the latest security patches
Follow best practices for kernel configuration and security hardening