Learn about CVE-2023-6817, a use-after-free vulnerability in Linux kernel's netfilter component, enabling local privilege escalation. Published on December 18, 2023.
This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's netfilter: nf_tables component that can be exploited for local privilege escalation. It was published by Google on December 18, 2023.
Understanding CVE-2023-6817
This vulnerability, identified as a use-after-free in the Linux kernel's netfilter: nf_tables component, can be utilized to achieve local privilege escalation.
What is CVE-2023-6817?
The vulnerability arises from the function nft_pipapo_walk not skipping inactive elements during set walk, potentially resulting in double deactivations of PIPAPO elements and leading to a use-after-free scenario in the Linux kernel's netfilter component.
The Impact of CVE-2023-6817
The impact of this CVE is categorized as privilege escalation, specifically CAPEC-233 "Privilege Escalation."
Technical Details of CVE-2023-6817
This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's netfilter: nf_tables component can be exploited for local privilege escalation due to improper handling of inactive elements during set walk.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects the Linux kernel's nf_tables component version 5.6, with versions less than 6.7 being vulnerable to exploitation.
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to achieving local privilege escalation on affected systems by malicious actors.
Mitigation and Prevention
Understanding the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability is crucial for ensuring system security.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is recommended to upgrade the affected systems beyond commit 317eb9685095678f2c9f5a8189de698c5354316a to address this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing robust security practices, such as regular system updates and patches, can help in preventing similar vulnerabilities in the future and enhancing the overall security posture of the systems.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely application of security patches released by Linux Kernel to mitigate the risk of exploitation associated with CVE-2023-6817.