CVE-2023-53080 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 05/02/2025
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
xsk: Add missing overflow check in xdp_umem_reg
The number of chunks can overflow u32. Make sure to return -EINVAL on overflow. Also remove a redundant u32 cast assigning umem->npgs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-53080 resides within the Linux kernel's implementation of the eXpress Data Path (XDP) framework, specifically affecting the XDP user memory (UMEM) registration functionality. This issue impacts the xsk (XDP Socket) subsystem which provides high-performance packet processing capabilities for network applications. The vulnerability manifests in the xdp_umem_reg function where insufficient validation exists for the number of chunks parameter, creating a potential overflow condition that could lead to system instability or security implications.
The core technical flaw involves an integer overflow scenario where the number of chunks parameter can exceed the maximum value representable by a 32-bit unsigned integer. This overflow occurs during the registration process of user memory regions used for packet buffering in XDP operations. When the chunk count surpasses the u32 limit, the system fails to properly validate this condition and instead proceeds with invalid memory calculations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-191 as an Integer Underflow or Overflow, specifically demonstrating a case where an unsigned integer overflow occurs without proper bounds checking.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it affects the fundamental packet processing capabilities of XDP-enabled applications. Systems utilizing XDP for high-speed network packet processing, including network function virtualization, traffic steering, and high-performance networking applications, could experience denial of service conditions or unexpected behavior when the overflow occurs. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where XDP is used for critical network operations, as it could potentially be exploited to disrupt network services or create instability in network processing pipelines.
The fix implemented addresses the vulnerability by adding proper overflow checking mechanisms within the xdp_umem_reg function, ensuring that when the chunk count exceeds valid u32 limits, the system returns -EINVAL to indicate invalid input parameters. Additionally, the patch removes a redundant u32 cast that was unnecessarily converting values during the assignment of umem->npgs, which could have contributed to the overall complexity and potential for error in the memory management calculations. This remediation aligns with security best practices for input validation and follows the principle of least privilege by ensuring that invalid parameters are rejected early in the processing pipeline. The fix directly addresses the ATT&CK technique T1499.004 which involves network denial of service through manipulation of system resources, as it prevents the overflow condition that could lead to resource exhaustion or system instability. Organizations should prioritize applying this kernel patch to maintain the integrity and stability of their network processing capabilities while ensuring proper input validation mechanisms are maintained throughout the XDP subsystem.