CVE-2018-20511 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A problem was found in the Linux kernel prior to version 4.18.11. The ipddp_ioctl function in the drivers/net/appletalk/ipddp.c file allows local users to obtain confidential kernel address details by leveraging CAP_NET_ADMIN privilege.

Understanding CVE-2018-20511

This CVE entry highlights a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that could be exploited by local users to access sensitive kernel address information.

What is CVE-2018-20511?

CVE-2018-20511 is a security flaw in the Linux kernel that existed before version 4.18.11. It involves the ipddp_ioctl function in the ipddp.c file, enabling unauthorized users to retrieve confidential kernel address details.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20511

The vulnerability allows local users to access sensitive kernel address information, potentially leading to further exploitation or unauthorized access to system resources.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20511

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE-2018-20511 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The ipddp_ioctl function in the drivers/net/appletalk/ipddp.c file permits local users to acquire confidential kernel address details by utilizing CAP_NET_ADMIN privilege.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Linux kernel versions before 4.18.11
Affected Component: drivers/net/appletalk/ipddp.c

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local users with CAP_NET_ADMIN privilege to read the ipddp_route dev and next fields through an SIOCFINDIPDDPRT ioctl call.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-20511 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply relevant security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the CVE-2018-20511 vulnerability.