CVE-2023-3268 : Security Advisory and Response

An out of bounds (OOB) memory access flaw was found in the Linux kernel in relay_file_read_start_pos in kernel/relay.c in the relayfs. This flaw could allow a local attacker to crash the system or leak kernel internal information.

Understanding CVE-2023-3268

What is CVE-2023-3268?

CVE-2023-3268 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows a local attacker to trigger an out of bounds memory access flaw in the relay_file_read_start_pos function in the relayfs.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3268

This vulnerability could result in a local attacker crashing the system or potentially leaking sensitive kernel internal information, leading to security breaches and system instability.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3268

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the relay_file_read_start_pos function within the kernel/relay.c file of the Linux kernel, allowing for out of bounds memory access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Kernel versions prior to 6.4-rc1, making systems running these versions susceptible to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

A local attacker could exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the out of bounds memory access flaw in relay_file_read_start_pos to crash the system or extract sensitive kernel information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Patching: It is crucial to update the affected systems to Kernel version 6.4-rc1 or later to mitigate the CVE-2023-3268 vulnerability.
Access Control: Implement strict access controls to limit local user privileges and reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Updates: Stay updated with the latest security patches and upgrades provided by the Linux kernel developers to address vulnerabilities promptly.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from relevant vendors and security communities to apply necessary patches and safeguards against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-3268.