CVE-2019-19069 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-19069, a memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel prior to version 5.3.9 that can lead to denial of service attacks. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this security issue.
A memory leak vulnerability in the Linux kernel prior to version 5.3.9 can lead to a denial of service attack due to excessive memory consumption.
Understanding CVE-2019-19069
This CVE identifies a specific flaw in the Linux kernel that can be exploited by attackers to cause a denial of service.
What is CVE-2019-19069?
The vulnerability lies in the fastrpc_dma_buf_attach() function in drivers/misc/fastrpc.c, allowing attackers to trigger dma_get_sgtable() failures, resulting in a denial of service attack through memory consumption.
The Impact of CVE-2019-19069
The vulnerability enables attackers to exhaust system memory, leading to a denial of service condition, potentially disrupting system operations and services.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-19069
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The memory leak in the fastrpc_dma_buf_attach() function in the Linux kernel before version 5.3.9 allows attackers to cause a denial of service by inducing dma_get_sgtable() failures.
Affected Systems and Versions
- The Linux kernel versions prior to 5.3.9 are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by triggering failures in the dma_get_sgtable() function, leading to excessive memory consumption and a denial of service attack.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-19069 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Linux kernel to version 5.3.9 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor system resources for any signs of excessive memory consumption.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly apply security patches and updates to the Linux kernel and other system components.
- Implement proper access controls and network segmentation to reduce the attack surface.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by Linux kernel maintainers to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2019-19069.