CVE-2021-28660 : What You Need to Know

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-28660, focusing on its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2021-28660

CVE-2021-28660 refers to a specific vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel affecting versions up to 5.11.6. The vulnerability, rtw_wx_set_scan in drivers/staging/rtl8188eu/os_dep/ioctl_linux.c, allows unauthorized writing beyond the end of the ->ssid[] array.

What is CVE-2021-28660?

The CVE-2021-28660 vulnerability in the Linux kernel up to version 5.11.6 enables attackers to conduct unauthorized writes beyond the allocated memory for the ->ssid[] array.

The Impact of CVE-2021-28660

The impact of this vulnerability allows threat actors to potentially execute arbitrary code or trigger a denial of service (DoS) by exploiting the memory corruption issue within the affected kernel versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-28660

Explore the specific technical aspects of CVE-2021-28660, including vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the rtw_wx_set_scan function in drivers/staging/rtl8188eu/os_dep/ioctl_linux.c, allowing attackers to write data beyond the bounds of the ->ssid[] array, leading to potential memory corruption.

Affected Systems and Versions

All Linux kernel versions up to 5.11.6 are impacted by CVE-2021-28660 due to the insecure handling of memory operations within the specified driver module.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending crafted input to the vulnerable function, threat actors can trigger buffer overflows, leading to potential code execution or DoS conditions within the Linux kernel.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the essential steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-28660, ensuring the security of affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

System administrators are advised to apply relevant security patches provided by Linux distributions to address the CVE-2021-28660 vulnerability promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust security practices, including regular system updates, code audits, and monitoring for potential vulnerabilities to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from the Linux kernel community, ensuring timely application of patches to protect systems from known vulnerabilities.