CVE-2023-3108 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record pertains to a race condition in the crypto module in the function skcipher_recvmsg, with a moderate severity rating as per Red Hat. It was published on July 11, 2023, by Red Hat.

Understanding CVE-2023-3108

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-3108, providing insights into the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-3108?

CVE-2023-3108 involves a flaw in the Linux kernel's interface for symmetric key cipher algorithms in the skcipher_recvmsg function. Specifically, a local user can exploit this flaw to crash the system, highlighting a critical security risk.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3108

The impact of CVE-2023-3108 is significant as it allows a local user to disrupt the system's stability by exploiting the vulnerability in the crypto module. This can lead to system crashes and potential security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3108

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-3108, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the skcipher_recvmsg function of the crypto/algif_skcipher.c file in the Linux kernel's interface for symmetric key cipher algorithms allows a local user to crash the system, posing a threat to system stability.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts various versions of the kernel, particularly affecting Red Hat Enterprise Linux versions 7, 8, and 9, along with Fedora. While some versions remain unaffected, others are vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-3108 involves a race condition in the crypto module, specifically in the skcipher_recvmsg function, enabling a local user to trigger system crashes and potential disruptions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the risks associated with CVE-2023-3108, immediate steps, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates are crucial for safeguarding systems against potential threats.

Immediate Steps to Take

System administrators and users are advised to apply security patches released by relevant vendors promptly. Additionally, monitoring system activity and restricting access can help mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, maintaining system hygiene, and staying informed about emerging vulnerabilities are essential for long-term security resilience against threats like CVE-2023-3108.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating and patching the affected systems with the latest security fixes provided by vendors is crucial to closing security gaps and preventing potential attacks leveraging CVE-2023-3108.