CVE-2019-15212 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2019-15212, a Linux kernel vulnerability allowing a malicious USB device to trigger a double-free issue. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices.
The Linux kernel version earlier than 5.1.8 has encountered a problem due to a double-free situation caused by a malevolent USB device within the drivers/usb/misc/rio500.c driver.
Understanding CVE-2019-15212
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows a malicious USB device to trigger a double-free issue in a specific driver.
What is CVE-2019-15212?
An issue in the Linux kernel before version 5.1.8 that enables a double-free vulnerability through a malevolent USB device in the drivers/usb/misc/rio500.c driver.
The Impact of CVE-2019-15212
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to potentially execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-15212
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is a double-free issue triggered by a malicious USB device within the drivers/usb/misc/rio500.c driver in Linux kernel versions prior to 5.1.8.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected systems: Linux systems running kernel versions earlier than 5.1.8
- Affected versions: Linux kernel versions before 5.1.8
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker inserting a malevolent USB device to trigger the double-free situation in the specified driver.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-15212 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Linux kernel to version 5.1.8 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor and restrict USB device connections to trusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to address security vulnerabilities.
- Implement strict USB device usage policies and controls to prevent unauthorized devices from compromising system security.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Linux distributions to address known vulnerabilities.