CVE-2019-19526 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A bug known as CID-6af3aa57a098 exists in the Linux kernel versions prior to 5.3.9. This bug refers to a use-after-free vulnerability that can be triggered by a malicious USB device when interacting with the drivers/nfc/pn533/usb.c driver.

Understanding CVE-2019-19526

This CVE identifies a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited by a malicious USB device.

What is CVE-2019-19526?

CVE-2019-19526 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows a use-after-free bug to be triggered by a malicious USB device.

The Impact of CVE-2019-19526

This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to potentially execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-19526

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Linux kernel before version 5.3.9 allows a use-after-free bug triggered by a malicious USB device in the drivers/nfc/pn533/usb.c driver.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Linux kernel versions prior to 5.3.9
Affected Components: drivers/nfc/pn533/usb.c driver

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a malicious USB device interacting with the vulnerable driver, leading to a use-after-free condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-19526 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to Linux kernel version 5.3.9 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict USB device connections to trusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to fix the use-after-free vulnerability.