CVE-2007-1353 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The setsockopt function in the L2CAP and HCI Bluetooth support in the Linux kernel before 2.4.34.3 allows context-dependent attackers to read kernel memory and obtain sensitive information via unspecified vectors involving the copy_from_user function accessing an uninitialized stack buffer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1353 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Linux kernel's Bluetooth implementation, specifically affecting the L2CAP and HCI Bluetooth support components. This issue exists in kernel versions prior to 2.4.34.3 and stems from improper handling of kernel memory access during Bluetooth socket operations. The vulnerability manifests through the setsockopt function which processes socket options for Bluetooth connections, creating a pathway for attackers to potentially extract sensitive data from kernel memory spaces.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper initialization of stack buffers within the copy_from_user function when processing Bluetooth socket options. When the setsockopt function handles certain Bluetooth protocol parameters, it fails to properly initialize memory buffers before copying data from user space into kernel space. This uninitialized buffer access creates a situation where residual data from previous operations or memory allocation patterns may be exposed to attackers. The vulnerability is classified as context-dependent because it requires specific conditions to be met for exploitation, typically involving active Bluetooth connections and crafted socket option parameters that trigger the flawed memory handling code path.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with access to potentially sensitive kernel memory contents that could include cryptographic keys, session data, or other confidential information. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, gather intelligence about system configurations, or potentially use the leaked information to facilitate further attacks. The exposure of kernel memory through this vulnerability could compromise the confidentiality of the entire system, as kernel memory often contains critical system information that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
Security practitioners should prioritize this vulnerability for remediation, particularly in environments where Bluetooth connectivity is present and where kernel versions have not been updated to 2.4.34.3 or later. The mitigation strategy involves applying the appropriate kernel security patches that address the uninitialized buffer issue in the Bluetooth subsystem. Additionally, system administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit Bluetooth connectivity where possible, reducing the attack surface. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-457: Use of Uninitialized Variable and demonstrates how improper memory initialization can lead to information disclosure. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability could map to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and control communication, though primarily it represents a reconnaissance and information gathering capability that could enable more sophisticated attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel hardening measures such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization to further mitigate the impact of similar vulnerabilities in the Bluetooth subsystem and other kernel components.