CVE-2008-3247 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The LDT implementation in the Linux kernel 2.6.25.x before 2.6.25.11 on x86_64 platforms uses an incorrect size for ldt_desc, which allows local users to cause a denial of service (system crash) or possibly gain privileges via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3247 represents a critical flaw in the Linux kernel's Local Descriptor Table (LDT) implementation affecting versions 2.6.25.x prior to 2.6.25.11 on x86_64 architectures. This issue stems from an incorrect size specification for the ldt_desc structure, which fundamentally compromises the kernel's memory management capabilities. The LDT mechanism serves as a crucial component in x86_64 systems for managing segment descriptors and process memory boundaries, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for system stability and security.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper sizing of the ldt_desc data structure within the kernel's LDT implementation. This miscalculation creates a scenario where local users can exploit memory layout inconsistencies to trigger kernel panics or system crashes. The vulnerability operates through unspecified vectors that leverage the incorrect size parameter to manipulate kernel memory structures, potentially allowing privilege escalation attacks. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in the design of kernel memory management components, specifically categorized under CWE-121 for heap-based buffer overflow conditions that can lead to privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-3247 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides potential pathways for local privilege escalation attacks. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, effectively compromising the entire system. The x86_64 platform-specific nature means that systems running affected kernel versions are particularly vulnerable, as the architecture's memory management mechanisms are directly impacted by the incorrect size specification. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' by leveraging kernel-level weaknesses to gain elevated system access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate kernel updates to version 2.6.25.11 or later, which contain the necessary patches addressing the ldt_desc sizing issue. System administrators should also implement monitoring for unusual system behavior or kernel panic events that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include restricting local user access to systems running vulnerable kernels and implementing proper kernel hardening techniques such as kernel address space layout randomization. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in kernel implementations and highlights how seemingly minor sizing errors can lead to severe security consequences. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected kernel versions and prioritize patch deployment across all production environments to prevent potential exploitation.