CVE-2021-38200 : What You Need to Know
Discover the impact of CVE-2021-38200, a vulnerability in the Linux kernel before version 5.12.13. Learn about the exploitation risks, affected systems, and effective mitigation strategies.
This CVE pertains to a vulnerability found in the Linux kernel before version 5.12.13, affecting systems with perf_event_paranoid=-1 and no specific PMU driver support registered. It allows local users to trigger a denial of service via a specific command, leading to a NULL pointer dereference and OOPS.
Understanding CVE-2021-38200
In this section, we will delve into the details of CVE-2021-38200.
What is CVE-2021-38200?
The vulnerability in arch/powerpc/perf/core-book3s.c in the Linux kernel before 5.12.13 allows local users to cause a denial of service through a specific command.
The Impact of CVE-2021-38200
The impact of this CVE is the ability for local users to disrupt the system by triggering a NULL pointer dereference and OOPS through a crafted command.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-38200
Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-38200.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises due to a lack of proper validation in the affected Linux kernel versions, leading to a NULL pointer dereference and system crash.
Affected Systems and Versions
Systems running Linux kernel versions before 5.12.13 with specific configurations are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Local users can exploit this issue by executing a certain command, leveraging the mentioned kernel versions and configurations.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-38200, immediate actions and long-term security practices need to be implemented.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to apply relevant patches, update to secure kernel versions, and restrict unnecessary access to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
In the long term, maintaining up-to-date kernel versions, configuring proper permissions, and monitoring system activities can enhance security posture.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for security updates from the Linux kernel's official sources, and promptly apply patches to address known vulnerabilities.