CVE-2024-0584 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 01/16/2024
A use-after-free issue was found in igmp_start_timer in net/ipv4/igmp.c in the network sub-component in the Linux Kernel. This flaw allows a local user to observe a refcnt use-after-free issue when receiving an igmp query packet, leading to a kernel information leak.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as a use-after-free issue in the igmp_start_timer function within net/ipv4/igmp.c represents a critical security flaw in the Linux kernel's multicast networking implementation. This specific weakness resides in the Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) handling code, which manages how hosts communicate with routers to participate in multicast groups. The vulnerability manifests when the kernel processes IGMP query packets, creating a scenario where memory resources are accessed after being freed, potentially leading to information disclosure or system instability.
The technical nature of this flaw stems from improper reference counting mechanisms within the IGMP subsystem. When an IGMP query packet is received, the igmp_start_timer function attempts to manage timer operations for multicast group membership tracking. However, the implementation fails to properly synchronize access to memory structures that may be freed during concurrent operations or race conditions. This creates a window where a local attacker can manipulate the timing and sequence of packet processing to trigger the use-after-free condition.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information leakage, as it represents a potential pathway for privilege escalation or system compromise. While the initial exploitation scenario involves a local user observing kernel refcnt information leaks, the underlying memory corruption could theoretically be leveraged to execute arbitrary code in kernel space. The attack requires local access to the system but does not necessitate network connectivity, making it particularly concerning for environments where local privilege is not strictly controlled.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions in software development, and demonstrates how improper memory management can create persistent security risks within kernel space operations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a privilege escalation technique through kernel vulnerabilities, potentially enabling attackers to gain elevated system privileges. The local nature of the attack means that it fits within the ATT&CK tactic of privilege escalation and defense evasion, as an attacker who already has local access can use this vulnerability to maintain or elevate their access level.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper memory management practices including improved reference counting mechanisms, synchronization primitives around shared data structures, and comprehensive input validation for IGMP packet processing. System administrators should prioritize applying kernel updates from trusted sources and consider implementing additional security controls such as mandatory access controls or kernel lockdown features. The vulnerability highlights the importance of rigorous code review processes for kernel subsystems and the need for thorough testing of concurrent access scenarios in network protocol implementations. Regular monitoring for anomalous system behavior and memory corruption indicators should also be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts.