CVE-2018-19967 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-19967, a vulnerability in Xen versions up to 4.11.x on Intel x86 platforms allowing guest OS users to trigger a denial of service, impacting the host OS.
A vulnerability has been found in Xen versions up to 4.11.x on Intel x86 platforms, allowing users of the guest operating system to trigger a denial of service, resulting in the host operating system becoming unresponsive. The issue stems from Xen's inability to handle certain HLE transactions associated with the KACQUIRE instruction prefix by Intel.
Understanding CVE-2018-19967
This CVE entry pertains to a vulnerability in Xen affecting Intel x86 platforms.
What is CVE-2018-19967?
CVE-2018-19967 is a vulnerability in Xen versions up to 4.11.x on Intel x86 platforms that enables guest OS users to cause a denial of service, leading to the host OS becoming unresponsive.
The Impact of CVE-2018-19967
The vulnerability allows malicious users to trigger a denial of service attack, potentially disrupting the host operating system's functionality.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-19967
This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
An issue in Xen through 4.11.x on Intel x86 platforms allows guest OS users to induce a denial of service (host OS hang) due to Xen's failure to address Intel's mishandling of specific HLE transactions associated with the KACQUIRE instruction prefix.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Up to 4.11.x
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by users of the guest operating system to trigger a denial of service attack, causing the host operating system to become unresponsive.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protective measures to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-19967.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches and updates provided by Xen to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor Xen's security advisories for any further updates or patches.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Xen to the latest versions to ensure security patches are in place.
- Implement proper access controls and monitoring to detect and prevent unauthorized activities.
Patching and Updates
- Xen has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure timely application of these patches to secure the system.