CVE-2010-1148 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The cifs_create function in fs/cifs/dir.c in the Linux kernel 2.6.33.2 and earlier allows local users to cause a denial of service (NULL pointer dereference and OOPS) or possibly have unspecified other impact via a NULL nameidata (aka nd) field in a POSIX file-creation request to a server that supports UNIX extensions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1148 resides within the Linux kernel's CIFS (Common Internet File System) implementation, specifically in the cifs_create function located in fs/cifs/dir.c. This flaw affects kernel versions up to and including 2.6.33.2, representing a critical security issue that demonstrates the dangers of inadequate input validation in kernel space code. The vulnerability manifests when processing POSIX file creation requests to CIFS servers that support UNIX extensions, creating a scenario where local attackers can exploit malformed data structures to compromise system stability.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from the cifs_create function's failure to properly validate the nameidata (nd) field in POSIX file creation requests. When a NULL value is passed for this field, the function attempts to dereference a null pointer during the file creation process, resulting in an immediate system crash known as an OOPS condition. This NULL pointer dereference represents a classic software bug pattern that can lead to system instability and denial of service conditions. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level where improper validation allows malicious input to bypass normal execution paths and directly impact kernel memory structures.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1148 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the vulnerability could potentially enable more severe consequences depending on system configuration and attack vectors. Local users who can execute code with sufficient privileges to make CIFS file creation requests can trigger the NULL pointer dereference, causing the kernel to crash and requiring system reboot for recovery. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-476 which specifically addresses NULL pointer dereference issues in software development, demonstrating how improper null checks in kernel code can result in catastrophic system failures. The attack requires local access and knowledge of the CIFS subsystem, but once exploited, the impact affects the entire system kernel integrity.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate kernel updates to versions 2.6.34 or later where the issue has been resolved through proper input validation and null pointer checks in the cifs_create function. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running older kernel versions that support CIFS with UNIX extensions. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious CIFS activity and implementing proper access controls can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to security best practices such as those outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation and defense evasion categories, where kernel-level vulnerabilities represent significant attack vectors for adversaries seeking persistent system compromise. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel hardening measures and regular security audits to identify similar issues in other kernel subsystems.