CVE-2010-3078 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The xfs_ioc_fsgetxattr function in fs/xfs/linux-2.6/xfs_ioctl.c in the Linux kernel before 2.6.36-rc4 does not initialize a certain structure member, which allows local users to obtain potentially sensitive information from kernel stack memory via an ioctl call.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3078 resides within the Linux kernel's XFS filesystem implementation and specifically affects the xfs_ioc_fsgetxattr function located in fs/xfs/linux-2.6/xfs_ioctl.c. This flaw represents a classic information disclosure vulnerability that stems from improper initialization of kernel data structures. The issue manifests when a local user executes an ioctl system call against an XFS filesystem, enabling them to access uninitialized memory contents that may contain sensitive data remnants from previous operations. Such information leakage occurs because the kernel function fails to properly initialize a structure member before returning data to user space, creating a pathway for kernel stack memory contents to be inadvertently exposed.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-125, which describes an out-of-bounds read condition where uninitialized memory is accessed and returned to user processes. The flaw operates at the kernel level within the XFS filesystem driver, specifically during the handling of filesystem attribute queries through ioctl commands. When the xfs_ioc_fsgetxattr function processes a request, it fails to initialize certain fields within a structure before populating them with data that will be returned to the calling process. This uninitialized data may contain remnants of previous kernel operations, including potentially sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, passwords, or other confidential data that was previously stored in the same memory locations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to systems running affected kernel versions, particularly those utilizing XFS filesystems. Local attackers with minimal privileges can exploit this weakness to gain access to kernel memory contents that should remain protected. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked data could potentially contain credentials, cryptographic material, or system configuration details that could be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability affects all systems running Linux kernel versions prior to 2.6.36-rc4, making it a widespread concern for organizations maintaining older kernel installations. The attack vector is straightforward and requires only local user access, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where privilege separation is not strictly enforced.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3078 primarily involve upgrading to kernel versions 2.6.36-rc4 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper structure initialization. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running XFS filesystems, as the vulnerability allows for information disclosure without requiring elevated privileges. Additionally, implementing proper kernel hardening measures such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization can provide additional protection layers. Organizations should also consider monitoring for unauthorized local access attempts and implementing strict access controls to minimize the attack surface. The remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as local privilege escalation or information gathering activities may be detected through monitoring of suspicious ioctl system calls and memory access patterns.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory initialization in kernel space operations and highlights the potential consequences of seemingly minor coding oversights. It represents a fundamental security principle violation where kernel developers failed to ensure that all data returned to user space is properly sanitized and initialized. This flaw underscores the necessity of thorough code reviews and security testing of kernel components, particularly those handling user input or system queries. The impact of such vulnerabilities extends beyond immediate information disclosure, as they can serve as stepping stones for more sophisticated attacks and highlight the need for comprehensive security practices in kernel development and maintenance.