CVE-2019-15211 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-15211, a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel prior to version 5.2.6. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A problem was found in the Linux kernel prior to version 5.2.6. The drivers/media/v4l2-core/v4l2-dev.c driver has a use-after-free vulnerability triggered by a malicious USB device. This vulnerability arises due to improper memory allocation in the drivers/media/radio/radio-raremono.c file.
Understanding CVE-2019-15211
This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel, specifically in the v4l2-dev.c driver, caused by a malicious USB device.
What is CVE-2019-15211?
CVE-2019-15211 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited by a malicious USB device, affecting versions prior to 5.2.6.
The Impact of CVE-2019-15211
This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the system by exploiting the use-after-free issue in the affected driver.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-15211
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The use-after-free vulnerability in the drivers/media/v4l2-core/v4l2-dev.c driver is triggered by a malicious USB device due to improper memory allocation in the drivers/media/radio/radio-raremono.c file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected systems: Linux kernel versions before 5.2.6
- Affected driver: drivers/media/v4l2-core/v4l2-dev.c
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by a malicious USB device to trigger the use-after-free issue in the affected driver, potentially leading to system compromise.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-15211, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Linux kernel to version 5.2.6 or later to patch the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any suspicious USB device activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the kernel and system software to protect against known vulnerabilities.
- Implement device control policies to restrict unauthorized USB devices.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security updates provided by Linux distributions or kernel developers to fix the vulnerability and enhance system security.