CVE-2019-19037 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2019-19037, a vulnerability in the Linux kernel up to version 5.3.12, potentially leading to a NULL pointer dereference and denial of service attacks. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
The Linux kernel, specifically the ext4_empty_dir function in fs/ext4/namei.c, up to version 5.3.12, may encounter a NULL pointer dereference due to the possibility of ext4_read_dirblock(inode, 0, DIRENT_HTREE) being zero.
Understanding CVE-2019-19037
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that could lead to a NULL pointer dereference.
What is CVE-2019-19037?
The CVE-2019-19037 vulnerability is related to the ext4_empty_dir function in the Linux kernel, specifically in the fs/ext4/namei.c file. It affects versions up to 5.3.12 and can result in a NULL pointer dereference due to a specific condition.
The Impact of CVE-2019-19037
This vulnerability could be exploited to cause a denial of service (DoS) attack by a malicious actor, potentially leading to system instability or crashes.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-19037
The technical aspects of this CVE provide insight into the vulnerability's nature and potential risks.
Vulnerability Description
The ext4_empty_dir function in fs/ext4/namei.c in the Linux kernel through 5.3.12 allows a NULL pointer dereference because ext4_read_dirblock(inode, 0, DIRENT_HTREE) can be zero.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected System: Linux kernel
- Affected Versions: Up to version 5.3.12
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises due to a specific condition in the ext4_empty_dir function, which can lead to a NULL pointer dereference when certain parameters are zero.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-19037 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor official sources for updates and security advisories related to the Linux kernel.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement proper access controls and security configurations to reduce the risk of exploitation.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates and patches released by the Linux kernel community.
- Prioritize the timely application of patches to ensure system security and stability.