CVE-2021-31440 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2021-31440, a critical vulnerability in Linux Kernel 5.11.15 that enables local attackers to escalate privileges by exploiting flaws within eBPF programs. Find out the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.
This CVE article provides details about a vulnerability in Linux Kernel 5.11.15 that allows local attackers to escalate privileges by exploiting flaws within eBPF programs.
Understanding CVE-2021-31440
This section will cover what CVE-2021-31440 is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.
What is CVE-2021-31440?
CVE-2021-31440 is a vulnerability in Linux Kernel 5.11.15 that enables local attackers to elevate privileges by taking advantage of unvalidated user-supplied eBPF programs.
The Impact of CVE-2021-31440
The vulnerability poses a high risk with a CVSS base score of 8.8, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code in the kernel context, leading to confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-31440
This section will delve into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw arises from the inadequate validation of user-supplied eBPF programs in Linux Kernel 5.11.15, which attackers can exploit to gain escalated privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects Linux Kernel version 5.11.15 specifically.
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit this vulnerability, local attackers need to execute low-privileged code on the target system before leveraging the flaw within eBPF programs.
Mitigation and Prevention
This section focuses on immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to apply patches provided by the Linux Kernel team to address CVE-2021-31440 and prevent potential privilege escalation attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing least privilege access, regular security audits, and monitoring user-supplied programs can help mitigate similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories from Linux Kernel and promptly apply patches to secure systems against known vulnerabilities.