CVE-2017-1000251 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2023
The native Bluetooth stack in the Linux Kernel (BlueZ), starting at the Linux kernel version 3.3-rc1 and up to and including 4.13.1, are vulnerable to a stack overflow vulnerability in the processing of L2CAP configuration responses resulting in Remote code execution in kernel space.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000251 represents a critical stack overflow flaw within the Linux kernel's Bluetooth implementation known as BlueZ. This vulnerability affects kernel versions ranging from 3.3-rc1 through 4.13.1, creating a widespread impact across numerous Linux distributions and embedded systems that rely on Bluetooth connectivity. The flaw exists in the native Bluetooth stack implementation, specifically within the Logical Link Control and Adaptation Protocol (L2CAP) layer which handles configuration responses for Bluetooth connections. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory locations in kernel space.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker crafts a specially malformed L2CAP configuration response packet that exceeds the allocated buffer size during processing. When the kernel's Bluetooth stack attempts to handle this oversized response, it writes data beyond the intended memory boundaries, causing a stack overflow condition that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This represents a severe privilege escalation vector since the attacker does not need physical access or local user credentials to exploit the vulnerability. The attack can be executed over the air without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for devices with Bluetooth connectivity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential denial of service conditions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain root-level access to affected systems, potentially leading to data exfiltration, persistent backdoors, or complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects a wide range of devices including smartphones, laptops, embedded systems, and IoT devices that utilize the Linux kernel's Bluetooth stack. This includes various Linux-based operating systems used in enterprise environments, automotive systems, and industrial control systems where Bluetooth connectivity is implemented. The vulnerability can be exploited through standard Bluetooth communication protocols without requiring special tools or conditions, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-1000251 primarily focus on immediate kernel updates and patches provided by Linux kernel maintainers and distribution vendors. System administrators should prioritize applying the official kernel patches that address the specific buffer overflow in the L2CAP configuration response handling code. Additionally, network administrators should implement Bluetooth access controls, disable unnecessary Bluetooth services when not required, and consider network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for kernel code execution and T1071.004 for application layer protocols, demonstrating how Bluetooth protocols can serve as attack surfaces for kernel-level exploitation. Organizations should also conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected kernel versions and implement monitoring for suspicious Bluetooth traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.