CVE-2018-1118 : Security Advisory and Response

In Linux kernel version 4.8 and onwards, a vulnerability exists in the vhost/vhost.c:vhost_new_msg() function that could allow local privileged users to access certain contents of the kernel memory.

Understanding CVE-2018-1118

This CVE record details a security issue in the Linux kernel affecting the vhost module.

What is CVE-2018-1118?

The vulnerability in the vhost/vhost.c:vhost_new_msg() function in Linux kernel versions 4.8 and above allows local privileged users to potentially access kernel memory contents via the /dev/vhost-net device file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1118

The vulnerability poses a low severity risk with a CVSS base score of 2.3. It requires high privileges but has a low impact on confidentiality and no impact on integrity or availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1118

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE-2018-1118 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from incorrect memory initialization in messages exchanged between virtual guests and the host OS through the vhost/vhost.c:vhost_new_msg() function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: vhost
Vendor: kernel
Versions Affected: since 4.8

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local privileged users reading from the /dev/vhost-net device file to access specific kernel memory contents.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1118 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply relevant patches provided by the vendor
Monitor for any unauthorized access to the /dev/vhost-net device file

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the kernel to the latest version
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access

Patching and Updates

Refer to vendor advisories for patch availability and apply them promptly