CVE-2019-12456 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the Linux kernel through version 5.1.5 allows local users to manipulate values, potentially leading to a denial of service or other impacts.

Understanding CVE-2019-12456

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the MPT3COMMAND case within the _ctl_ioctl_main function in drivers/scsi/mpt3sas/mpt3sas_ctl.c.

What is CVE-2019-12456?

The issue, known as a "double fetch" vulnerability, enables local users to manipulate the ioc_number value between two kernel reads, potentially leading to a denial of service or other unspecified impact.

The Impact of CVE-2019-12456

A third party has reported this as unexploitable since the doubly fetched value remains unused.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12456

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows local users to cause a denial of service or possibly have other unspecified impacts by changing the value of ioc_number between two kernel reads.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Linux kernel through version 5.1.5

Exploitation Mechanism

Local users can manipulate the ioc_number value between two kernel reads, potentially leading to a denial of service or other unspecified impact.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor official sources for patches and updates.
Apply relevant security patches as soon as they are available.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit potential exploitation.

Patching and Updates

Keep the Linux kernel up to date with the latest security patches and updates.