CVE-2020-12464 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

USB_sg_cancel in drivers/usb/core/message.c in the Linux kernel before 5.6.8 has a use-after-free vulnerability due to a transfer occurring without a reference, identified as CID-056ad39ee925.

Understanding CVE-2020-12464

This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel before version 5.6.8, specifically in the USB_sg_cancel function.

What is CVE-2020-12464?

The vulnerability in USB_sg_cancel in the Linux kernel before 5.6.8 leads to a use-after-free issue because a transfer occurs without a reference, known as CID-056ad39ee925.

The Impact of CVE-2020-12464

The use-after-free vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-12464

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the USB_sg_cancel function in drivers/usb/core/message.c in the Linux kernel before version 5.6.8, allowing for a use-after-free scenario.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected: Linux kernel versions before 5.6.8

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs due to a transfer happening without a reference, leading to the use-after-free condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-12464, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official patch provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
Monitor security advisories for updates and apply patches promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version.
Implement proper access controls and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts.

Patching and Updates

Update the Linux kernel to version 5.6.8 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.