CVE-2011-1759 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the sys_oabi_semtimedop function in arch/arm/kernel/sys_oabi-compat.c in the Linux kernel before 2.6.39 on the ARM platform, when CONFIG_OABI_COMPAT is enabled, allows local users to gain privileges or cause a denial of service (heap memory corruption) by providing a crafted argument and leveraging a race condition.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/03/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-1759 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Linux kernel's ARM architecture implementation that existed prior to version 2.6.39. This vulnerability specifically targets the sys_oabi_semtimedop function located in the arch/arm/kernel/sys_oabi-compat.c file, which handles compatibility operations for older ARM binary interfaces. The flaw manifests when the CONFIG_OABI_COMPAT kernel configuration option is enabled, creating a pathway for malicious exploitation that can result in privilege escalation or system denial of service conditions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of integer values within the semaphore timed operation function. When a crafted argument is provided to the sys_oabi_semtimedop function, the kernel fails to properly validate or constrain integer values, leading to an overflow condition that corrupts heap memory structures. This integer overflow occurs during the processing of semaphore operations that involve timeout parameters, where the system attempts to calculate memory allocation sizes based on user-provided values without adequate bounds checking. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it combines with existing race conditions within the kernel's semaphore handling mechanisms, amplifying the potential for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass serious privilege escalation capabilities. Local attackers who can execute code on the target system can leverage this flaw to elevate their privileges to root level access, effectively compromising the entire system. The heap memory corruption resulting from the integer overflow can be exploited to overwrite critical kernel data structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution within kernel space. Additionally, the vulnerability can be used to cause system crashes or reboot cycles, creating persistent denial of service conditions that can severely impact system availability and stability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1759 primarily involve updating to Linux kernel versions 2.6.39 or later where the integer overflow has been addressed through proper input validation and bounds checking. System administrators should disable the CONFIG_OABI_COMPAT kernel configuration option if the system does not require compatibility with older ARM binary interfaces, as this removes the attack surface entirely. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual semaphore operations and memory allocation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which describes integer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to severe security implications. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and can be categorized under the system binary modification and kernel module loading attack patterns, making it particularly concerning for enterprise security postures that require maintaining secure kernel environments.