CVE-2018-14641 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security vulnerability in the Linux kernel from versions 4.19-rc1 to 4.19-rc3 inclusive can lead to a denial-of-service attack.

Understanding CVE-2018-14641

This CVE involves a flaw in the ip_frag_reasm() function within the net/ipv4/ip_fragment.c file of the Linux kernel.

What is CVE-2018-14641?

The vulnerability discovered in versions 4.19-rc1 to 4.19-rc3 can result in a system crash in the ip_do_fragment() function, potentially enabling a remote denial-of-service attack.

The Impact of CVE-2018-14641

CVSS Base Score: 6.5 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Availability Impact: High
This flaw can be exploited remotely to trigger a system crash, affecting victim hosts with specific non-default settings.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-14641

The technical aspects of this CVE provide insight into the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The ip_frag_reasm() function in the Linux kernel from 4.19-rc1 to 4.19-rc3 inclusive is susceptible to exploitation, potentially leading to a system crash.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Kernel
Vendor: The Linux Foundation
Versions: 4.19-rc1 to 4.19-rc3 inclusive

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting this flaw remotely, an attacker can cause a system crash in the ip_do_fragment() function, resulting in a denial-of-service attack.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-14641 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches promptly
Monitor vendor advisories for updates
Implement network security measures

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch systems
Conduct security assessments and audits

Patching and Updates

Apply the patch provided by The Linux Foundation to address this vulnerability.