CVE-2019-14895 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-14895, a critical heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Linux kernel affecting versions 3.x.x and 4.x.x before 4.18.0. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
Researchers have identified a vulnerability in the Linux kernel affecting versions 3.x.x and 4.x.x before 4.18.0. This heap-based buffer overflow in the Marvell WiFi chip driver can lead to denial of service or unauthorized code execution.
Understanding CVE-2019-14895
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel that could have severe consequences if exploited.
What is CVE-2019-14895?
CVE-2019-14895 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Marvell WiFi chip driver within the Linux kernel. It impacts all kernel versions 3.x.x and 4.x.x prior to 4.18.0.
The Impact of CVE-2019-14895
Exploiting this vulnerability could result in a denial of service, causing system crashes, or potentially allowing attackers to execute unauthorized code on the affected device.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-14895
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is triggered during connection negotiation when handling country settings of remote devices, leading to a heap-based buffer overflow in the Marvell WiFi chip driver.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Kernel
- Vendor: Red Hat
- Affected Versions: All kernel versions 3.x.x and 4.x.x before 4.18.0
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
- Privileges Required: Low
- User Interaction: None
- Scope: Unchanged
- CVSS Base Score: 8 (High)
- CVSS Vector String: CVSS:3.0/AV:A/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-14895 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Monitor vendor advisories and security mailing lists for updates.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and firmware on the system.
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
- Educate users about safe computing practices and potential threats.
Patching and Updates
- Red Hat has released several security advisories addressing CVE-2019-14895. Ensure to apply the relevant patches to secure the affected systems.