CVE-2017-7308 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The packet_set_ring function in net/packet/af_packet.c in the Linux kernel through 4.10.6 does not properly validate certain block-size data, which allows local users to cause a denial of service (overflow) or possibly have unspecified other impact via crafted system calls.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-7308 resides within the Linux kernel's packet socket implementation, specifically in the packet_set_ring function located in net/packet/af_packet.c. This flaw represents a critical validation issue that affects Linux kernel versions through 4.10.6, potentially enabling local attackers to exploit a buffer overflow condition through maliciously crafted system calls. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to compromise system stability and availability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the packet_set_ring function which handles the configuration of packet ring buffers for AF_PACKET sockets. When processing certain block-size parameters, the function fails to properly validate the size values provided by user-space applications, leading to potential integer overflow conditions. This validation gap allows attackers to specify block sizes that exceed the intended limits, causing memory corruption within kernel space. The flaw falls under CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions, and can be classified as a kernel-level buffer overflow vulnerability that affects memory management structures.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-7308 extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially encompass more severe consequences including system instability and privilege escalation opportunities. Local attackers with access to the system can leverage this vulnerability to trigger kernel memory corruption, resulting in system crashes, reboot cycles, or potentially more sophisticated attacks that could be exploited to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability's exploitation requires local system access but does not necessitate network connectivity, making it particularly concerning for environments where local privilege escalation is a concern. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through kernel exploits, and T1499, covering network denial of service attacks through kernel-level manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-7308 primarily focus on kernel updates and system hardening measures. The most effective approach involves applying the patched kernel version that addresses the validation issue in the packet_set_ring function. System administrators should prioritize updating to kernel versions 4.10.7 or later where the vulnerability has been resolved through proper input validation mechanisms. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict system call filtering through capabilities and access controls, monitoring for unusual packet socket activity, and employing kernel lockdown mechanisms where available. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in kernel space operations and highlights the necessity for comprehensive security testing of system call interfaces to prevent similar issues in other kernel subsystems.