CVE-2019-20431 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-20431, a vulnerability in Lustre file system version 2.12.3 and earlier, leading to out-of-bounds access and panic due to unvalidated packet fields. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
Lustre file system version 2.12.3 and earlier has a vulnerability in the ptlrpc module, leading to out-of-bounds access and panic due to missing validation for specific packet fields sent by a client. The osd_bufs_get function in the osd_ldiskfs module also lacks proper length value validation.
Understanding CVE-2019-20431
This CVE involves vulnerabilities in the Lustre file system version 2.12.3 and earlier, affecting the ptlrpc and osd_ldiskfs modules.
What is CVE-2019-20431?
CVE-2019-20431 is a vulnerability in the Lustre file system version 2.12.3 and earlier, specifically in the ptlrpc module, causing out-of-bounds access and panic due to unvalidated packet fields from a client. Additionally, the osd_bufs_get function in the osd_ldiskfs module lacks proper length validation.
The Impact of CVE-2019-20431
The vulnerability may allow attackers to trigger out-of-bounds access and potentially cause system panics, leading to denial of service or other security risks.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-20431
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The ptlrpc module in the Lustre file system version 2.12.3 and earlier has an out-of-bounds access issue due to the absence of validation for specific packet fields sent by a client. Additionally, the osd_bufs_get function in the osd_ldiskfs module lacks proper length value validation.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Lustre file system version 2.12.3 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted packets with specific fields to trigger out-of-bounds access and potentially cause system panics.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-20431 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by Lustre for the affected versions
- Monitor system logs for any unusual activities
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Lustre file system to the latest version
- Conduct security audits and penetration testing
- Educate users on safe computing practices
Patching and Updates
- Ensure all Lustre file system components are updated to versions that address the vulnerabilities