CVE-2023-23002 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article discusses the details of CVE-2023-23002, a published vulnerability that affects the Linux kernel before version 5.16.3. The vulnerability lies in the drivers/bluetooth/hci_qca.c file, where there is a misinterpretation of the devm_gpiod_get_index_optional return value.

Understanding CVE-2023-23002

CVE-2023-23002 is a vulnerability found in the Linux kernel that impacts versions prior to 5.16.3. It arises from a misinterpretation of the devm_gpiod_get_index_optional return value in the drivers/bluetooth/hci_qca.c file.

What is CVE-2023-23002?

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-23002 occurs due to an incorrect assumption about the return value of devm_gpiod_get_index_optional in the drivers/bluetooth/hci_qca.c file. This misinterpretation can lead to potential security risks and exploitation by malicious actors.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23002

The impact of CVE-2023-23002 could result in a security breach where attackers may exploit the misinterpreted return value to execute arbitrary code, cause a denial of service, or gain unauthorized access to systems running on the affected Linux kernel versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23002

The technical details of CVE-2023-23002 shed light on the vulnerability's description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

In the Linux kernel before version 5.16.3, the drivers/bluetooth/hci_qca.c file misinterprets the devm_gpiod_get_index_optional return value, expecting it to be NULL in the error case, whereas it is actually an error pointer. This discrepancy can be exploited by threat actors.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions prior to 5.16.3. As the issue lies within the drivers/bluetooth/hci_qca.c file, systems utilizing Bluetooth functionality on these kernel versions are vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Malicious actors may exploit CVE-2023-23002 by leveraging the misinterpreted return value of devm_gpiod_get_index_optional in the drivers/bluetooth/hci_qca.c file. This could lead to potential attacks targeting the affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23002 and enhance system security, certain mitigation and prevention measures need to be implemented promptly.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately updating the Linux kernel to version 5.16.3 or a newer release that includes the patch for CVE-2023-23002 is essential to mitigate the vulnerability and safeguard systems against potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong access control measures, regular security audits, and staying informed about security updates within the Linux kernel ecosystem are vital long-term practices to enhance overall system security and resilience.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring and applying security patches released by the Linux kernel community is crucial to address known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-23002. Keeping systems up-to-date with the latest patches can help prevent exploitation and ensure a secure computing environment.