CVE-2017-8066 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Linux kernel versions 4.9.x and 4.10.x before 4.10.2, impacting the interaction between drivers/net/can/usb/gs_usb.c and the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option. Local users can exploit this flaw to cause a denial of service or potentially other impacts.

Understanding CVE-2017-8066

This CVE, published on April 23, 2017, highlights a specific issue within the Linux kernel versions 4.9.x and 4.10.x before 4.10.2 that can be exploited by local users.

What is CVE-2017-8066?

The vulnerability in drivers/net/can/usb/gs_usb.c in the Linux kernel versions 4.9.x and 4.10.x before 4.10.2 allows local users to trigger a denial of service or other impacts by utilizing multiple virtual pages for a DMA scatterlist.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8066

The vulnerability can lead to a system crash, memory corruption, or potentially other impacts when exploited by local users.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8066

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the Linux kernel versions 4.9.x and 4.10.x before 4.10.2 arises from the incorrect interaction between drivers/net/can/usb/gs_usb.c and the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions: 4.9.x and 4.10.x before 4.10.2
Systems using the Linux kernel within this version range are vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Local users can exploit the vulnerability by leveraging the incorrect interaction between drivers/net/can/usb/gs_usb.c and the CONFIG_VMAP_STACK option.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-8066 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply relevant patches and updates to the Linux kernel to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate exploitation of the flaw.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access and limit potential damage from exploitation.
Regularly update and patch systems to address known vulnerabilities and enhance overall security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the Linux kernel is updated to version 4.10.2 or newer to eliminate the vulnerability.