CVE-2023-4206 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's net/sched: cls_route component, which can lead to local privilege escalation.

Understanding CVE-2023-4206

This vulnerability revolves around the use-after-free issue within the Linux kernel's net/sched: cls_route component, potentially allowing attackers to escalate their privileges.

What is CVE-2023-4206?

The vulnerability in the Linux kernel's net/sched: cls_route component arises when route4_change() is invoked on an existing filter, leading to a use-after-free situation. This could ultimately enable an attacker to achieve local privilege escalation by manipulating the filter instances.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4206

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized under CAPEC-233 as "Privilege Escalation," signifying the severity of the issue and the potential consequences it can have on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4206

In-depth technical insights into the CVE shed light on different aspects of the vulnerability:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the copying of the tcf_result struct into a new filter instance during route4_change(), leading to a use-after-free scenario during filter updates, potentially allowing for privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Linux kernel's Kernel version 3.18 with a version less than 6.5 is reported to be affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability involves manipulating the filter instances bound to a class, triggering a use-after-free scenario that malicious actors can exploit for privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-4206 requires a strategic approach to mitigate the risks and prevent potential exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to a version past commit b80b829e9e2c1b3f7aae34855e04d8f6ecaf13c8 to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address potential weaknesses proactively.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Linux kernel maintainers.
Apply patches and updates promptly to ensure that known vulnerabilities are mitigated effectively.