CVE-2019-19068 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-19068, a memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 5.3.11 that allows attackers to trigger denial of service by consuming excessive memory. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this vulnerability.
The Linux kernel version 5.3.11 has a memory leak vulnerability in the rtl8xxxu_submit_int_urb() function, allowing attackers to cause denial of service through excessive memory consumption.
Understanding CVE-2019-19068
This CVE identifies a memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 5.3.11 that can lead to a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2019-19068?
The vulnerability is located in the rtl8xxxu_submit_int_urb() function within the rtl8xxxu_core.c file in the Linux kernel. Attackers can exploit this flaw to trigger failures in usb_submit_urb(), resulting in a denial of service due to memory consumption.
The Impact of CVE-2019-19068
The vulnerability allows attackers to exhaust system memory, leading to a denial of service condition. This can disrupt system operations and potentially cause system crashes.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-19068
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The memory leak in rtl8xxxu_submit_int_urb() in the Linux kernel through version 5.3.11 enables attackers to initiate usb_submit_urb() failures, causing a denial of service by consuming excessive memory.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected System: Linux kernel version 5.3.11
- Affected Component: rtl8xxxu_submit_int_urb() function
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by triggering failures in usb_submit_urb(), leading to memory leaks and eventual denial of service.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-19068 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers promptly.
- Monitor system memory usage for any unusual spikes that could indicate exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network and system monitoring to detect abnormal behavior that may indicate an ongoing attack.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the memory leak vulnerability.