CVE-2023-6679 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This is a detailed overview of CVE-2023-6679, a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows for a null pointer dereference in the dpll_pin_parent_pin_set() function in the Digital Phase Locked Loop (DPLL) subsystem.

Understanding CVE-2023-6679

This CVE involves a null pointer dereference vulnerability in the dpll_pin_parent_pin_set() function of the Linux kernel, leading to the potential for a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2023-6679?

The CVE-2023-6679 vulnerability is a null pointer dereference flaw found in the dpll_pin_parent_pin_set() function within the Digital Phase Locked Loop (DPLL) subsystem of the Linux kernel.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6679

This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to trigger a denial of service attack, potentially causing a system to become unresponsive or crash.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6679

The vulnerability is classified with a CVSS base score of 4.4, marking it as a medium severity issue. It has a low attack complexity, requires high privileges, and has a local attack vector.

Vulnerability Description

The null pointer dereference vulnerability in the dpll_pin_parent_pin_set() function of the Linux kernel can be exploited to create a denial of service condition.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is the Linux kernel.
Versions affected include Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9, Fedora, and various versions of Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6, 7, and 8.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability locally, requiring high privileges to trigger a denial of service attack on affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent CVE-2023-6679 is crucial for maintaining system security.

Immediate Steps to Take

As mitigation options may not meet the Red Hat product security criteria, it is essential to monitor for security patches and updates from Red Hat and the Linux kernel community.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly updating and patching the Linux kernel and associated components is essential for reducing the risk of null pointer dereference vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-6679.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Red Hat and other Linux vendors to apply patches promptly and protect systems from potential exploitation.

CVE-2023-6679 was reported to Red Hat and publicly disclosed on December 11, 2023. Red Hat credits Xingyuan Mo from IceSword Lab for reporting this vulnerability.