CVE-2019-3701 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2019-3701, a Linux kernel vulnerability allowing privileged users to manipulate CAN frames, potentially leading to system crashes. Learn about affected systems, exploitation mechanisms, and mitigation strategies.
A vulnerability was found in the Linux kernel versions up to 4.19.13 in the can_can_gw_rcv function located in net/can/gw.c. The issue allows a privileged user to manipulate CAN frames, potentially leading to a system crash.
Understanding CVE-2019-3701
This CVE describes a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can be exploited by a user with specific privileges to cause a system crash.
What is CVE-2019-3701?
The vulnerability in the Linux kernel versions up to 4.19.13 allows a user with CAP_NET_ADMIN capabilities to manipulate CAN frames, potentially resulting in a system crash.
The Impact of CVE-2019-3701
The vulnerability can be exploited by a privileged user to overwrite critical data structures, leading to a system crash and potentially affecting the stability and security of the system.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-3701
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The issue lies in the can_can_gw_rcv function in net/can/gw.c, where CAN frame modification rules can be abused to overwrite critical data structures, potentially causing a system crash.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected systems: Linux kernel versions up to 4.19.13
- Affected component: can_can_gw_rcv function
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allows a user with CAP_NET_ADMIN privileges to create a modification rule that sets the data length code to a value higher than the available size of the CAN frame data. This, in combination with a configured checksum calculation, can lead to overwriting critical data structures and causing a system crash.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-3701, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant security updates and patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
- Restrict user privileges to minimize the impact of potential exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the capabilities of privileged users.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Linux kernel vendors and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities.