CVE-2017-17805 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-17805, a vulnerability in the Salsa20 encryption algorithm in the Linux kernel, allowing local attackers to trigger denial of service attacks and potential impacts by exploiting zero-length inputs.
In the Linux kernel version prior to 4.14.8, a vulnerability exists in the Salsa20 encryption algorithm. This flaw allows a local attacker to trigger a denial of service attack and potentially execute other impacts by exploiting zero-length inputs. Both the generic and x86 implementations of Salsa20 were affected.
Understanding CVE-2017-17805
This CVE entry highlights a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's Salsa20 encryption algorithm.
What is CVE-2017-17805?
The vulnerability in the Salsa20 encryption algorithm in the Linux kernel allows a local attacker to exploit zero-length inputs, leading to a denial of service attack and potential additional impacts.
The Impact of CVE-2017-17805
The vulnerability can result in uninitialized-memory free and the crash of the kernel. Additionally, executing a carefully crafted sequence of system calls utilizing the blkcipher_walk API may cause other unspecified impacts.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-17805
This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in the Salsa20 encryption algorithm in the Linux kernel version prior to 4.14.8 allows local attackers to trigger a denial of service attack and potentially execute other impacts by exploiting zero-length inputs.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: All versions prior to 4.14.8
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers with access to the AF_ALG-based skcipher interface can exploit this vulnerability.
- Configuration: CONFIG_CRYPTO_USER_API_SKCIPHER
- Affected Implementations: Both the generic (crypto/salsa20_generic.c) and x86 (arch/x86/crypto/salsa20_glue.c) implementations of Salsa20
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-17805 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
- Monitor official sources for updates and advisories related to this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Linux kernel to the latest stable version.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Refer to official vendor advisories for patching instructions and updates.