CVE-2013-3228 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The irda_recvmsg_dgram function in net/irda/af_irda.c in the Linux kernel before 3.9-rc7 does not initialize a certain length variable, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information from kernel stack memory via a crafted recvmsg or recvfrom system call.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3228 resides within the Linux kernel's IrDA (Infrared Data Association) protocol implementation, specifically in the irda_recvmsg_dgram function located in net/irda/af_irda.c. This flaw represents a classic case of uninitialized variable usage that can lead to information disclosure, making it particularly concerning for systems running affected kernel versions prior to 3.9-rc7. The IrDA subsystem enables infrared communication between devices, commonly used in legacy networking scenarios and device-to-device data transfer applications.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from the improper initialization of a length variable within the irda_recvmsg_dgram function. When a local user executes a crafted recvmsg or recvfrom system call against an IrDA socket, the function fails to properly initialize a critical length parameter before using it in subsequent operations. This uninitialized variable contains residual data from previous stack operations, effectively exposing kernel memory contents to user-space applications. The flaw operates at the kernel level and requires local privilege escalation to exploit, though the information disclosure aspect remains significant regardless of privilege level.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked kernel stack memory may contain sensitive data including cryptographic keys, session tokens, process credentials, or other confidential information that could be leveraged by an attacker. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-457: Use of Uninitialized Variable, which is categorized under the broader category of information exposure vulnerabilities. The local nature of the attack means that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit this flaw, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments or when combined with other exploitation techniques.
From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.003: Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell, though adapted for Linux environments, as it enables unauthorized information gathering through system calls. The vulnerability also relates to T1005: Data from Local System, representing a method for extracting sensitive kernel memory contents. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running kernel versions before 3.9-rc7, as the fix involves proper initialization of the length variable to prevent information leakage from kernel stack memory. The remediation process requires updating to kernel versions 3.9-rc7 or later, where the uninitialized variable issue has been addressed through proper memory initialization protocols, thereby eliminating the risk of sensitive data exposure through crafted system calls.