CVE-2023-3159 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 06/13/2023
A use after free issue was discovered in driver/firewire in outbound_phy_packet_callback in the Linux Kernel. In this flaw a local attacker with special privilege may cause a use after free problem when queue_event() fails.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-3159 represents a critical use after free flaw within the Linux kernel's firewire driver subsystem, specifically within the outbound_phy_packet_callback function. This issue resides in the driver/firewire directory of the kernel source code and demonstrates a classic memory safety vulnerability that can be exploited by malicious actors with appropriate privileges. The flaw occurs when the queue_event() function fails during the processing of firewire PHY packets, creating a scenario where previously freed memory locations are accessed, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the firewire driver's handling of outbound physical layer packets through the outbound_phy_packet_callback function. When queue_event() encounters a failure condition, the driver continues processing without proper memory management, leaving allocated memory structures in an inconsistent state. This creates a window where subsequent operations may attempt to access freed memory regions, resulting in unpredictable behavior including potential privilege escalation or system crashes. The vulnerability is classified as a use after free condition under CWE-416, which specifically addresses the improper handling of memory after it has been freed.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to systems running affected Linux kernel versions, particularly those utilizing firewire hardware interfaces. A local attacker with special privileges, such as a user with access to firewire devices or kernel module loading capabilities, could exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The impact extends beyond simple system crashes as the vulnerability could enable attackers to bypass security controls, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. The attack vector requires local access with specific privileges but the potential for privilege escalation makes this a critical concern for system administrators and security professionals.
The exploitation of CVE-2023-3159 aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and kernel exploitation, specifically targeting the kernel's memory management subsystem. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems and implementing monitoring for suspicious kernel-level activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Mitigation strategies include applying the latest kernel updates from vendor security advisories, restricting local access to firewire devices, and implementing kernel module whitelisting policies. Security teams should also consider implementing kernel memory protection mechanisms and monitoring for anomalous behavior in firewire driver operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management in kernel space and highlights the need for comprehensive code review processes to identify similar issues in other kernel subsystems.