CVE-2012-6545 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The Bluetooth RFCOMM implementation in the Linux kernel before 3.6 does not properly initialize certain structures, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information from kernel memory via a crafted application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6545 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Linux kernel's Bluetooth RFCOMM implementation. This issue affects kernel versions prior to 3.6 and stems from inadequate initialization of kernel data structures during Bluetooth communication processing. The flaw specifically impacts the RFCOMM protocol layer which handles serial port profile connections in Bluetooth networking. The vulnerability allows local attackers with minimal privileges to exploit improper memory initialization practices and extract sensitive kernel memory contents through carefully crafted applications.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the failure to properly initialize kernel memory structures before processing Bluetooth RFCOMM connections. According to CWE-1030, this represents a weakness in the initialization of data structures that leads to information exposure. When the kernel processes Bluetooth RFCOMM connections, it fails to clear or properly set certain memory regions, leaving residual data from previous operations accessible to malicious applications. This improper initialization creates a pathway for information leakage that can reveal kernel memory contents including potentially sensitive data such as cryptographic keys, passwords, or other confidential information stored in memory.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-6545 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the vulnerability can be exploited by local users to gain insights into the kernel's internal state. This information can be leveraged by attackers to craft more sophisticated attacks, potentially leading to privilege escalation or further exploitation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where Bluetooth connectivity is enabled and multiple users have local access to systems. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.003 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell) and T1068 (Local Privilege Escalation) techniques, as local users can exploit this to gather information and potentially elevate their privileges. The attack surface is broad given that Bluetooth functionality is commonly enabled in modern Linux systems, particularly in desktop environments, servers, and embedded devices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-6545 primarily involve upgrading to Linux kernel version 3.6 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper memory initialization practices. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems and ensuring that all kernel components are current with security updates. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and limiting local user privileges can reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider disabling Bluetooth functionality when not required and monitoring for suspicious Bluetooth-related activities. The fix implemented in kernel version 3.6 specifically addresses the improper structure initialization by ensuring that all memory regions are properly cleared before processing Bluetooth RFCOMM connections, thereby eliminating the information disclosure vector that existed in earlier versions. This vulnerability highlights the importance of proper memory management in kernel space and demonstrates how seemingly minor initialization flaws can create significant security risks.