CVE-2013-2888 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple array index errors in drivers/hid/hid-core.c in the Human Interface Device (HID) subsystem in the Linux kernel through 3.11 allow physically proximate attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (heap memory corruption) via a crafted device that provides an invalid Report ID.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2888 represents a critical flaw in the Linux kernel's Human Interface Device subsystem that exposes systems to remote code execution and denial of service attacks. This issue resides within drivers/hid/hid-core.c and affects Linux kernel versions through 3.11, making it a significant concern for system administrators managing older kernel versions. The vulnerability stems from multiple array index errors that occur when processing HID reports, specifically when the kernel encounters malformed Report IDs from connected devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper bounds checking within the HID core driver's handling of device reports. When a malicious device presents an invalid Report ID that exceeds the allocated array boundaries, the kernel's memory management system becomes susceptible to heap corruption. This memory corruption occurs because the system does not validate the Report ID values against predetermined limits before accessing array elements, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout. The flaw operates at the kernel level, meaning successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, as attackers can leverage the heap corruption to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
From an operational perspective, the vulnerability's attack surface is limited by its requirement for physical proximity to the target system, as it relies on attackers connecting malicious HID devices directly to the machine. However, this proximity requirement does not mitigate the severity of potential impacts, as the vulnerability can be exploited through common attack vectors such as USB drop attacks or social engineering tactics that enable physical access. The denial of service component of this vulnerability can be particularly disruptive in environments where HID devices are frequently connected, such as in office settings or public computing environments, where an attacker could repeatedly connect malicious devices to maintain persistent disruption.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation and execution through legitimate system processes. Attackers can leverage the kernel-level access provided by this flaw to establish persistent backdoors, modify system files, or disable security mechanisms. The vulnerability also relates to CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array index values, and CWE-787, concerning out-of-bounds write operations. Security professionals should consider implementing device whitelisting policies, disabling unnecessary HID drivers, and applying kernel updates as immediate mitigations. The recommended approach includes upgrading to kernel versions beyond 3.11 where this vulnerability has been addressed, combined with monitoring for unusual HID device connections and implementing proper access controls to limit physical device access. Organizations should also consider deploying kernel lockdown mechanisms and ensuring that only trusted devices are permitted to connect to critical systems, as the vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple denial of service to encompass complete system compromise.