CVE-2023-2176 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 04/21/2023
A vulnerability was found in compare_netdev_and_ip in drivers/infiniband/core/cma.c in RDMA in the Linux Kernel. The improper cleanup results in out-of-boundary read, where a local user can utilize this problem to crash the system or escalation of privilege.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2176 resides within the Linux kernel's RDMA (Remote Direct Memory Access) subsystem, specifically in the compare_netdev_and_ip function located in drivers/infiniband/core/cma.c. This flaw represents a critical security issue that affects systems utilizing InfiniBand hardware and RDMA capabilities for high-performance networking operations. The vulnerability manifests as an improper cleanup mechanism that leads to out-of-bounds read conditions, creating potential attack vectors for local adversaries who can exploit this weakness to compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the compare_netdev_and_ip function. When processing network device and IP address comparisons, the function fails to properly validate array bounds before accessing memory locations, resulting in a classic out-of-bounds read scenario. This type of flaw falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses improper validation of array index values, and is classified as a memory safety issue that can lead to information disclosure or system instability. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within kernel space, where the attacker can leverage the improper cleanup to escalate privileges from a local user account to kernel-level access.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to enterprise environments that rely on RDMA-enabled infrastructure for high-speed data processing and communication. Local users with minimal privileges can potentially exploit this flaw to cause system crashes or achieve privilege escalation, which would allow them to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions. The attack surface is particularly concerning in data center environments where RDMA is commonly deployed for low-latency network operations between servers, as it could enable attackers to gain complete control over affected systems and potentially compromise entire clusters of interconnected nodes. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond individual system compromise, as it could facilitate lateral movement within networks where RDMA is utilized for inter-node communication.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-2176 should prioritize immediate patching of affected kernel versions, as the vulnerability exists in the core kernel networking stack where even local privilege escalation can have catastrophic consequences. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring for unusual system behavior or kernel crashes that might indicate exploitation attempts, while also reviewing access controls to limit local user privileges where possible. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1068, which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and privileges, making it particularly dangerous as it allows adversaries to operate with elevated privileges within the kernel space. System administrators 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. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures should be reviewed to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, particularly in environments where RDMA is used for critical infrastructure communications.