CVE-2012-0207 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2023
The igmp_heard_query function in net/ipv4/igmp.c in the Linux kernel before 3.2.1 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (divide-by-zero error and panic) via IGMP packets.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0207 represents a critical divide-by-zero error in the Linux kernel's Internet Group Management Protocol implementation. This flaw exists within the igmp_heard_query function located in the net/ipv4/igmp.c source file, affecting all Linux kernel versions prior to 3.2.1. The issue manifests when the kernel processes IGMP packets from remote attackers, creating a condition where a division operation attempts to divide by zero, leading to system panic and complete denial of service. The vulnerability operates at the network protocol level, specifically targeting the multicast group management functionality that allows hosts to report their multicast group memberships to routers.
From a technical perspective, the flaw occurs when the igmp_heard_query function fails to properly validate incoming IGMP packet parameters before performing mathematical operations. The function processes IGMP query messages that are part of the multicast routing protocol, where a divide-by-zero error occurs during packet processing when certain field values are improperly set by malicious actors. This type of error falls under CWE-369, which specifically addresses the divide-by-zero vulnerability category, and represents a classic case of improper input validation in kernel space code. The error condition causes the kernel to crash immediately, resulting in a system panic that terminates all network operations and requires manual system reboot to restore functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple service disruption, as it provides remote attackers with a reliable method to crash networked Linux systems without requiring any authentication or elevated privileges. Attackers can simply send specially crafted IGMP packets to a target system, causing the kernel to execute the divide-by-zero operation and subsequently panic the entire system. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in network environments where multicast traffic is common, such as in enterprise networks, data centers, or any infrastructure relying on multicast routing protocols. The attack vector is accessible over the network, meaning that even systems behind firewalls or network segmentation can be affected if IGMP traffic is allowed to pass through. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which covers network disruption through denial of service attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0207 focus primarily on applying the official kernel patch released with version 3.2.1, which includes proper input validation to prevent the division operation from occurring with zero values. System administrators should prioritize updating their kernel versions to 3.2.1 or later, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Additional protective measures include implementing network filtering rules to block IGMP traffic at network boundaries, particularly in environments where multicast functionality is not required. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of kernel hardening techniques and input validation practices, as the issue stems from inadequate parameter checking in kernel space code. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on suspicious IGMP packet patterns, providing additional monitoring capability for potential exploitation attempts.