CVE-2019-18198 : Security Advisory and Response
Discover the impact of CVE-2019-18198, a flaw in the Linux kernel before 5.3.4 that allows local attackers to corrupt memory. Learn how to mitigate this vulnerability.
A flaw in the fib6 suppression feature in the Linux kernel before version 5.3.4 could allow a local attacker to manipulate memory, leading to memory corruption.
Understanding CVE-2019-18198
What is CVE-2019-18198?
In the Linux kernel before version 5.3.4, a vulnerability exists in the fib6 suppression feature that could be exploited by a malicious local attacker to corrupt memory.
The Impact of CVE-2019-18198
This vulnerability could potentially result in memory corruption, posing a security risk to affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-18198
Vulnerability Description
A reference count usage error in the fib6_rule_suppress() function of the fib6 suppression feature in net/ipv6/fib6_rules.c can be exploited by a local attacker to corrupt memory.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The flaw can be abused by a malicious local attacker to manipulate memory, potentially leading to memory corruption.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
- Monitor official sources for updates and security advisories.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Conduct regular security assessments and audits of the system.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the Linux kernel is regularly updated to the latest version to mitigate the vulnerability.