CVE-2018-11506 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-11506, a Linux kernel vulnerability allowing local users to trigger a denial of service through a stack-based buffer overflow. Find out how to mitigate this issue.
In the Linux kernel through version 4.16.12, a vulnerability exists in the sr_do_ioctl function in drivers/scsi/sr_ioctl.c that can be exploited by local users to cause a denial of service through a stack-based buffer overflow. This vulnerability is due to the differing sizes of sense buffers at the CDROM layer and the SCSI layer.
Understanding CVE-2018-11506
This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows local users to trigger a denial of service attack by exploiting a stack-based buffer overflow.
What is CVE-2018-11506?
The vulnerability in the Linux kernel through version 4.16.12 allows local users to exploit the sr_do_ioctl function in drivers/scsi/sr_ioctl.c, potentially leading to a denial of service by triggering a stack-based buffer overflow. The issue arises from the varying sizes of sense buffers at the CDROM and SCSI layers.
The Impact of CVE-2018-11506
The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in a denial of service attack, and there may be additional unspecified impacts on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-11506
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The sr_do_ioctl function in drivers/scsi/sr_ioctl.c in the Linux kernel through 4.16.12 allows local users to cause a denial of service (stack-based buffer overflow) or potentially have other unspecified impacts due to the differing sizes of sense buffers at the CDROM and SCSI layers.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: All versions up to Linux kernel 4.16.12
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by local users through a CDROMREADMODE2 ioctl call, triggering a stack-based buffer overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-11506 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers promptly.
- Monitor vendor advisories and security mailing lists for updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to address known vulnerabilities.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential exploits.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the Linux kernel is regularly updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.