CVE-2018-20961 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-20961, a double free vulnerability in the Linux kernel before 4.16.4. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps to prevent exploitation.
A potential security flaw was identified in the Linux kernel version prior to 4.16.4. This flaw involves a double free vulnerability found in the f_midi_set_alt function of the f_midi driver, located at drivers/usb/gadget/function/f_midi.c. Exploiting this vulnerability could potentially result in a denial of service or lead to other unpredictable consequences.
Understanding CVE-2018-20961
In the Linux kernel before 4.16.4, a double free vulnerability in the f_midi_set_alt function of drivers/usb/gadget/function/f_midi.c in the f_midi driver may allow attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly have unspecified other impact.
What is CVE-2018-20961?
CVE-2018-20961 is a double free vulnerability in the f_midi_set_alt function of the f_midi driver in the Linux kernel before version 4.16.4.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20961
Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to a denial of service or other unpredictable consequences on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20961
The technical details of CVE-2018-20961 include:
Vulnerability Description
- Type: Double free vulnerability
- Location: f_midi_set_alt function of the f_midi driver
- File: drivers/usb/gadget/function/f_midi.c
Affected Systems and Versions
- Systems running Linux kernel versions prior to 4.16.4
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers may exploit the vulnerability in the f_midi_set_alt function to cause a denial of service or other impacts.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2018-20961, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Linux kernel to version 4.16.4 or newer to address the double free vulnerability.
- Monitor vendor security advisories for patches and updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel and associated drivers.
- Implement network security measures to detect and prevent potential exploitation of vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to fix the double free vulnerability in the f_midi driver.