CVE-2023-2162 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 04/19/2023
A use-after-free vulnerability was found in iscsi_sw_tcp_session_create in drivers/scsi/iscsi_tcp.c in SCSI sub-component in the Linux Kernel. In this flaw an attacker could leak kernel internal information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2162 represents a critical use-after-free flaw within the Linux kernel's iSCSI TCP implementation, specifically in the iscsi_sw_tcp_session_create function located in drivers/scsi/iscsi_tcp.c. This issue resides within the SCSI sub-component of the kernel's storage subsystem, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments that rely heavily on iSCSI storage protocols. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices where freed memory locations are still being accessed or referenced, creating potential avenues for exploitation.
The technical flaw manifests when the iscsi_sw_tcp_session_create function handles session creation for iSCSI software TCP connections. During the normal execution flow, memory allocations occur for session structures and associated data structures that are subsequently freed when sessions are terminated or encounter errors. However, the function fails to properly nullify pointers or validate memory state before subsequent operations, leading to scenarios where freed memory can be accessed through use-after-free conditions. This improper memory handling allows for potential information disclosure, as attackers can manipulate the timing and execution flow to access freed kernel memory regions that may contain sensitive internal kernel data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates potential pathways for privilege escalation and system compromise. When an attacker successfully exploits this use-after-free condition, they can potentially read kernel memory contents that may include sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, session credentials, or other internal kernel structures. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where iSCSI storage is heavily utilized, as it could allow unauthorized access to storage resources or enable attackers to gain deeper system insights that could facilitate further exploitation. The flaw affects various kernel versions and impacts systems that implement iSCSI TCP connections, making it relevant across multiple enterprise storage configurations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-2162 should focus on immediate kernel updates and patches provided by Linux kernel maintainers, as the most effective solution addresses the root cause through proper memory management implementation. System administrators should prioritize applying the official kernel patches that correct the use-after-free conditions in the iSCSI TCP driver. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of iSCSI services to trusted networks only. Monitoring for unusual iSCSI connection patterns or memory access attempts can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel hardening measures such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and kernel module signing to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions, and represents a potential entry point for ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and credential access through kernel-level vulnerabilities.