CVE-2014-3153 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The futex_requeue function in kernel/futex.c in the Linux kernel through 3.14.5 does not ensure that calls have two different futex addresses, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted FUTEX_REQUEUE command that facilitates unsafe waiter modification.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-3153 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Linux kernel's futex implementation. This issue resides in the futex_requeue function located in kernel/futex.c, affecting Linux kernel versions through 3.14.5. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of futex addresses during FUTEX_REQUEUE operations, creating a condition where malicious code can manipulate kernel memory structures to achieve unauthorized privilege elevation. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it bypasses normal user-space security boundaries and can be exploited by local attackers with minimal privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability exploits a fundamental race condition in the futex subsystem's handling of waiters. When a FUTEX_REQUEUE command is issued, the kernel should verify that the two futex addresses involved in the operation are distinct to prevent malicious manipulation of the waiter list. However, the flawed implementation fails to perform this validation, allowing an attacker to provide identical addresses or manipulate the futex state in ways that corrupt kernel data structures. This vulnerability falls under CWE-362, which specifically addresses Race Conditions, and more broadly relates to CWE-284, concerning improper access control mechanisms. The attacker can leverage this flaw to modify the kernel's internal waiter management structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with kernel privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-3153 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Local users who can execute code on the target system can exploit this vulnerability to gain root access, effectively compromising the entire machine. The attack requires only local execution privileges and does not need network access or special hardware, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users might have legitimate access to system resources. This vulnerability can be exploited in various scenarios including shared hosting environments, containerized applications, or any system where local users might attempt to elevate their privileges. The exploit can be automated and does not require sophisticated knowledge of kernel internals, making it a significant threat to system security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-3153 focus primarily on kernel updates and system hardening measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched Linux kernel version that addresses the futex_requeue validation issue. System administrators should implement immediate patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary kernel updates. Additional mitigations include restricting local user privileges where possible, implementing proper access controls, and monitoring for suspicious kernel-level activity. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and defense evasion, as attackers can use it to establish persistent access and hide their activities within the kernel space. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel module signing, secure boot configurations, and runtime integrity checking to further protect against exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the kernel's synchronization primitives.