CVE-2019-19053 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-19053, a Linux kernel vulnerability allowing denial of service attacks due to memory leaks. Find mitigation steps and system protection measures.
A vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 5.3.11 and earlier can lead to a denial of service attack due to a memory leak in the rpmsg_eptdev_write_iter() function.
Understanding CVE-2019-19053
This CVE identifies a specific vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited to cause a denial of service attack by consuming excessive memory.
What is CVE-2019-19053?
The vulnerability exists in the rpmsg_eptdev_write_iter() function within drivers/rpmsg/rpmsg_char.c in the Linux kernel version 5.3.11 and earlier. When copy_from_iter_full() fails, it triggers a memory leak, leading to a denial of service attack.
The Impact of CVE-2019-19053
The vulnerability, identified as CID-bbe692e349e2, allows attackers to cause a denial of service by consuming excessive memory, potentially disrupting system operations.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-19053
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
A memory leak in the rpmsg_eptdev_write_iter() function in drivers/rpmsg/rpmsg_char.c in the Linux kernel through version 5.3.11 enables attackers to trigger copy_from_iter_full() failures, resulting in a denial of service due to memory consumption.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected System: Linux kernel version 5.3.11 and earlier
- Affected Function: rpmsg_eptdev_write_iter() in drivers/rpmsg/rpmsg_char.c
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by causing copy_from_iter_full() failures, leading to a memory leak and subsequent denial of service attack.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-19053 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers
- Monitor system resources for unusual memory consumption
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version
- Implement proper memory management practices to mitigate memory leaks
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches released by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the vulnerability.