CVE-2017-8071 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-8071, a Linux kernel vulnerability in drivers/hid/hid-cp2112.c allowing local users to trigger a denial of service. Find mitigation steps and affected versions here.
In the Linux kernel 4.9.x before version 4.9.9, a vulnerability exists in drivers/hid/hid-cp2112.c that can be exploited by local users to trigger a denial of service. This flaw involves the improper usage of a spinlock in a USB HID request callback.
Understanding CVE-2017-8071
This CVE entry highlights a specific vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 4.9.x before 4.9.9.
What is CVE-2017-8071?
The vulnerability in the Linux kernel 4.9.x before 4.9.9 allows local users to potentially cause a denial of service (deadlock) by exploiting a flaw in the code found in drivers/hid/hid-cp2112.c. The issue arises from the incorrect use of a spinlock without considering the possibility of sleeping in a USB HID request callback.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8071
The vulnerability could be exploited by local users to trigger a denial of service (deadlock) on affected systems. This could lead to system unresponsiveness or crashes.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8071
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in drivers/hid/hid-cp2112.c in the Linux kernel 4.9.x before 4.9.9 involves the improper use of a spinlock without considering the possibility of sleeping in a USB HID request callback.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Linux kernel 4.9.x before version 4.9.9
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by local users through unspecified methods to potentially trigger a denial of service (deadlock) in the affected systems.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-8071 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches and updates provided by the Linux kernel maintainers promptly.
- Monitor security advisories for any new information or patches related to this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to ensure the latest security fixes are in place.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential exploits.
Patching and Updates
- Keep the Linux kernel up to date with the latest stable releases to mitigate known vulnerabilities.