CVE-2018-1066 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The Linux kernel version 4.11 and earlier is susceptible to a security flaw in the file cifsencrypt.c, leading to a NULL pointer dereference in the setup_ntlmv2_rsp() function. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker controlling a CIFS server, potentially causing a kernel panic on a client with the server mounted.

Understanding CVE-2018-1066

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 4.11 and earlier, impacting the handling of an empty TargetInfo field in an NTLMSSP setup negotiation response during session recovery.

What is CVE-2018-1066?

The vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 4.11 and earlier allows an attacker to trigger a kernel panic on a client by exploiting a NULL pointer dereference in the setup_ntlmv2_rsp() function.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1066

The security flaw in the Linux kernel could be leveraged by an attacker to cause a kernel panic on a client machine that has a CIFS server mounted, potentially leading to a denial of service (DoS) situation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1066

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a mishandling of an empty TargetInfo field in an NTLMSSP setup negotiation response during session recovery, resulting in a NULL pointer dereference in the setup_ntlmv2_rsp() function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Linux kernel 4.11
Vendor: n/a
Versions: Linux kernel 4.11

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker who controls a CIFS server, allowing them to trigger a kernel panic on a client with the server mounted.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1066 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary security updates provided by the Linux distribution or vendor.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the Linux kernel is regularly updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.