CVE-2019-19536 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This vulnerability occurs in the Linux kernel versions prior to 5.2.9. It arises from an information leak bug in the driver drivers/net/can/usb/peak_usb/pcan_usb_pro.c, which can be exploited through a malicious USB device. It is also known as CID-ead16e53c2f0.

Understanding CVE-2019-19536

This CVE-2019-19536 vulnerability affects the Linux kernel versions before 5.2.9 and poses a risk of information leakage through a specific USB driver.

What is CVE-2019-19536?

CVE-2019-19536 is an information leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel's driver for USB devices, specifically in the drivers/net/can/usb/peak_usb/pcan_usb_pro.c driver.

The Impact of CVE-2019-19536

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit a malicious USB device to leak sensitive information from the affected system, potentially leading to further security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-19536

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE-2019-19536 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Linux kernel before version 5.2.9 allows for an information leak due to a flaw in the USB driver drivers/net/can/usb/peak_usb/pcan_usb_pro.c.

Affected Systems and Versions

Linux kernel versions prior to 5.2.9

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a malicious USB device to trigger the information leak in the affected driver.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2019-19536, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Linux kernel to version 5.2.9 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor USB device connections for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict USB device usage policies within your organization.
Regularly update and patch all software and drivers to prevent known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by the Linux kernel community to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2019-19536.