CVE-2023-2176 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability was discovered in compare_netdev_and_ip in drivers/infiniband/core/cma.c in RDMA in the Linux Kernel. This vulnerability leads to improper cleanup, resulting in an out-of-boundary read. Exploiting this vulnerability, a local user could potentially crash the system or escalate privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-2176

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-2176, outlining what it is and its impact.

What is CVE-2023-2176?

CVE-2023-2176 is a vulnerability found in the Linux Kernel's RDMA implementation, specifically in compare_netdev_and_ip in drivers/infiniband/core/cma.c. It allows a local user to trigger an out-of-boundary read by exploiting improper cleanup processes, potentially leading to system crashes or privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2023-2176

The impact of CVE-2023-2176 is significant as it can be exploited by malicious actors to disrupt system stability or gain unauthorized elevated privileges. Organizations using affected versions of the Linux Kernel are at risk of exploitation if not mitigated promptly.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-2176

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-2176, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in compare_netdev_and_ip in drivers/infiniband/core/cma.c allows a local user to perform an out-of-boundary read due to improper cleanup procedures. This can be leveraged to crash the system or potentially escalate privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the Linux Kernel version 6.1 under the 'Kernel' product. Organizations using this specific version are vulnerable to exploitation unless mitigations are applied.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the improper cleanup in compare_netdev_and_ip, a local user can trigger an out-of-boundary read, leading to system instability or privilege escalation. Malicious actors could exploit this vulnerability to disrupt operations or gain unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the risks posed by CVE-2023-2176, organizations should implement immediate steps, establish long-term security practices, and prioritize patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should assess their systems to determine if they are running the affected Linux Kernel version.
Implement access controls and restrictions to limit the impact of potential privilege escalation.
Monitor systems for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Linux Kernel to address vulnerabilities promptly.
Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate security weaknesses proactively.
Educate users and administrators on security best practices to enhance overall awareness and response to security incidents.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories released by the Linux community and promptly apply patches to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Establish a patch management process that ensures timely deployment of updates across all systems and devices.
Test patches in a controlled environment before deploying them to production to minimize disruptions and ensure compatibility.

By following these mitigation strategies and best practices, organizations can enhance their security posture and reduce the likelihood of exploitation through CVE-2023-2176.