CVE-2023-52807 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 05/21/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
net: hns3: fix out-of-bounds access may occur when coalesce info is read via debugfs
The hns3 driver define an array of string to show the coalesce info, but if the kernel adds a new mode or a new state, out-of-bounds access may occur when coalesce info is read via debugfs, this patch fix the problem.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/06/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2023-52807 represents a critical out-of-bounds memory access issue within the Linux kernel's hns3 network driver implementation. This flaw specifically manifests when coalescing information is accessed through the debugfs interface, creating a potential security risk that could be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized system access or cause system instability. The hns3 driver, which manages Huawei's hardware networking components, utilizes a string array to display coalescing information, but fails to properly validate array boundaries when new modes or states are introduced by kernel updates. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and falls under the broader category of buffer overflow conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. The issue is particularly concerning because it occurs during debugfs operations, which are typically used for system diagnostics and troubleshooting by administrators, making it a potential attack vector that could be leveraged by attackers with access to debug interfaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the driver's hardcoded array definition that lacks dynamic boundary checking mechanisms. When the kernel introduces new coalescing modes or states, the existing string array may not accommodate the additional entries, leading to memory access beyond allocated bounds. This occurs because the debugfs interface reads coalescing information without proper validation of the array indices against the actual array size, creating a scenario where an attacker could manipulate the input to trigger memory corruption. The flaw is classified as an implementation error in the driver's data handling logic, where static array bounds are not properly enforced against dynamic kernel state changes. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic case of insufficient input validation and boundary checking, which aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection, and T1547.001 for registry run keys and startup folder, as attackers could potentially exploit this to establish persistent access. The hns3 driver's debugfs interface becomes a critical attack surface where malicious actors could cause system crashes or potentially execute arbitrary code through carefully crafted input that triggers the out-of-bounds access condition.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-52807 extends beyond simple system instability to potentially enable privilege escalation and system compromise in environments where the hns3 driver is actively used. Systems running affected kernel versions with Huawei network hardware components are vulnerable to denial of service attacks that could disrupt network services, as well as more sophisticated exploitation attempts that might lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects any Linux system utilizing Huawei's networking hardware through the hns3 driver, particularly in enterprise environments where debugfs interfaces are accessible to administrative users or potentially to unauthorized parties. Organizations using this driver in production environments face significant risk if the vulnerability is exploited, as it could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges or cause persistent system disruptions. The patch addresses this by implementing proper array boundary checking mechanisms that ensure coalescing information read via debugfs does not exceed the allocated array size, thereby preventing the out-of-bounds memory access condition. Security professionals should prioritize patching systems running affected kernel versions to prevent exploitation, as the vulnerability could be leveraged in both targeted attacks against specific systems and broader exploitation campaigns targeting vulnerable network infrastructure. The fix demonstrates the importance of maintaining proper input validation and boundary checking in kernel drivers, particularly those handling dynamic data through debug interfaces, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive testing of driver components when kernel updates introduce new functionality or states.