CVE-2019-19528 : Security Advisory and Response

A use-after-free vulnerability, also known as CID-edc4746f253d, exists in the drivers/usb/misc/iowarrior.c driver of the Linux kernel prior to version 5.3.7. This vulnerability can be exploited by a malicious USB device.

Understanding CVE-2019-19528

This CVE identifies a specific vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to USB device handling.

What is CVE-2019-19528?

CVE-2019-19528 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's drivers/usb/misc/iowarrior.c driver before version 5.3.7. It allows malicious USB devices to trigger a use-after-free condition.

The Impact of CVE-2019-19528

This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker with a malicious USB device to potentially execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-19528

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The use-after-free bug in the drivers/usb/misc/iowarrior.c driver of the Linux kernel before 5.3.7 can be triggered by a malicious USB device, leading to potential security risks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Linux kernel versions before 5.3.7 are vulnerable to this exploit.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a specially crafted USB device to trigger the use-after-free condition in the affected driver.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-19528 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Linux kernel to version 5.3.7 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid connecting untrusted USB devices to critical systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux kernel and system components.
Implement device control policies to restrict USB device usage.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers to address the vulnerability.