CVE-2019-17351 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A problem was found in the Linux kernel's drivers/xen/balloon.c file, used in Xen up to version 4.12.x. This issue enables guest operating system users to create a denial of service situation by consuming resources without restriction during the mapping of guest memory. It is also known as CID-6ef36ab967c7.

Understanding CVE-2019-17351

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Linux kernel affecting Xen virtualization up to version 4.12.x.

What is CVE-2019-17351?

An issue in the Linux kernel's drivers/xen/balloon.c file allows guest OS users to trigger a denial of service by consuming resources excessively during guest memory mapping.

The Impact of CVE-2019-17351

This vulnerability can lead to a denial of service situation within Xen virtualized environments, potentially disrupting system operations and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-17351

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in drivers/xen/balloon.c in the Linux kernel before version 5.2.3, as utilized in Xen through 4.12.x, permits guest OS users to cause a denial of service due to uncontrolled resource consumption during guest memory mapping.

Affected Systems and Versions

Linux kernel versions before 5.2.3
Xen virtualization up to version 4.12.x

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by consuming resources excessively during the mapping of guest memory, leading to a denial of service condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-17351 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Linux kernel and Xen to address the vulnerability.
Monitor system resources to detect any abnormal resource consumption.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel and Xen to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Implement access controls and monitoring mechanisms to prevent unauthorized resource consumption.

Patching and Updates

Update the Linux kernel to version 5.2.3 or later.
Upgrade Xen virtualization software to a version that includes the necessary security fixes.