CVE-2019-19078 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-19078, a memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 5.3.11 that allows attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by causing excessive memory consumption. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
The Linux kernel version 5.3.11 has a vulnerability that allows attackers to create a denial of service situation by causing failures in a specific function, leading to excessive memory consumption.
Understanding CVE-2019-19078
This CVE identifies a memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited to trigger a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2019-19078?
This vulnerability exists in the function ath10k_usb_hif_tx_sg() in the file usb.c within the drivers/net/wireless/ath/ath10k directory. Attackers can exploit this flaw to cause failures in the usb_submit_urb() function, resulting in a denial of service by consuming excessive memory. It is also known as CID-b8d17e7d93d2.
The Impact of CVE-2019-19078
The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to disrupt the normal operation of systems running the affected Linux kernel version 5.3.11. By triggering memory consumption, attackers can render the system unresponsive, leading to a denial of service condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-19078
This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
A memory leak in the ath10k_usb_hif_tx_sg() function in drivers/net/wireless/ath/ath10k/usb.c in the Linux kernel through version 5.3.11 allows attackers to cause a denial of service by triggering usb_submit_urb() failures, identified as CID-b8d17e7d93d2.
Affected Systems and Versions
- The Linux kernel version 5.3.11
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit the vulnerability by causing failures in the usb_submit_urb() function, leading to excessive memory consumption.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor system resources for any signs of excessive memory consumption.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious traffic that could exploit this vulnerability.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Linux kernel vendors to apply patches promptly.