CVE-2005-3358 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Linux kernel before 2.6.15 allows local users to cause a denial of service (panic) via a set_mempolicy call with a 0 bitmask, which causes a panic when a page fault occurs.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3358 represents a critical flaw in the Linux kernel's memory management subsystem that affects versions prior to 2.6.15. This issue resides within the memory policy implementation where the kernel fails to properly validate input parameters during memory allocation operations. The vulnerability specifically manifests when a local user executes a set_mempolicy system call with a bitmask value of zero, creating a condition that leads to system instability and potential denial of service.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter validation within the kernel's memory policy handling code. When set_mempolicy is invoked with a zero bitmask, the kernel's memory management structures become corrupted or improperly initialized, leading to undefined behavior during subsequent memory operations. The flaw occurs because the kernel does not perform proper bounds checking or validation of the bitmask parameter before proceeding with memory policy configuration. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-129 Input Validation, specifically involving insufficient validation of input parameters that can lead to system crashes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows local attackers to trigger a kernel panic, effectively causing a system-wide denial of service condition. Since the vulnerability requires local access to execute, it represents a privilege escalation risk that can be exploited by users with minimal system privileges. The panic occurs specifically during page fault handling when the corrupted memory policy structures attempt to process memory allocation requests. This creates a scenario where legitimate system operations can be disrupted, potentially leading to system instability and requiring manual reboot to restore normal operation.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of how improper input validation in kernel space can lead to catastrophic system failures. From a cybersecurity perspective, this flaw represents a weakness in the kernel's memory management subsystem that could be leveraged in various attack scenarios. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves the exploitation of system vulnerabilities for privilege escalation or denial of service. Security practitioners should note that this issue is particularly concerning because it affects the fundamental memory management capabilities of the operating system, making it a high-priority target for remediation.
Organizations should immediately implement kernel updates to version 2.6.15 or later to address this vulnerability. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for any unusual system behavior or kernel panic messages that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in kernel space and underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of system call interfaces. Regular kernel updates and security audits remain essential practices for maintaining system integrity and preventing exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the memory management subsystem.