CVE-2024-36914 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 05/30/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
drm/amd/display: Skip on writeback when it's not applicable
[WHY]
dynamic memory safety error detector (KASAN) catches and generates error messages "BUG: KASAN: slab-out-of-bounds" as writeback connector does not support certain features which are not initialized.
[HOW]
Skip them when connector type is DRM_MODE_CONNECTOR_WRITEBACK.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-36914 affects the Linux kernel's display subsystem, specifically within the AMD display driver component. This issue manifests as a dynamic memory safety error that is detected by the Kernel Address Sanitizer (KASAN) mechanism. The root cause occurs when the system attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated boundaries for writeback connectors, resulting in the generation of "BUG: KASAN: slab-out-of-bounds" error messages. This memory corruption vulnerability represents a critical security concern as it could potentially allow unauthorized memory access patterns that may lead to system instability or information disclosure. The flaw specifically impacts the drm/amd/display driver module where the kernel handles display connector operations, particularly those related to writeback functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of connector type validation within the display management code path. When the system encounters a DRM_MODE_CONNECTOR_WRITEBACK connector type, the code attempts to initialize or access features that are not supported or applicable to this specific connector type. This mismatch between expected functionality and actual connector capabilities results in memory access violations that KASAN is designed to detect and report. The vulnerability demonstrates poor defensive programming practices where the code does not adequately check connector type support before attempting feature initialization, creating a scenario where memory operations occur on uninitialized or unsupported memory regions. This issue aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-36914 extends beyond simple system instability, potentially creating security risks through memory corruption that could be exploited by malicious actors. When the KASAN subsystem detects this out-of-bounds access, it generates a kernel panic or system crash, leading to denial of service conditions that could affect graphics rendering capabilities and overall system reliability. In multi-user environments or systems where graphics processing is critical, this vulnerability could result in unexpected system shutdowns or graphical glitches that may compromise user experience and system availability. The vulnerability also represents a potential attack surface that could be leveraged to escalate privileges or extract sensitive information from kernel memory spaces, particularly when combined with other exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the kernel patch that implements the recommended solution of skipping initialization operations when the connector type is DRM_MODE_CONNECTOR_WRITEBACK. This approach follows the principle of defensive programming by ensuring that feature initialization only occurs when appropriate for the specific connector type. System administrators should prioritize updating to kernel versions that include this fix, particularly in production environments where graphics functionality is critical. The patch implementation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in kernel mode drivers, and represents a preventive measure against potential privilege escalation scenarios. Additionally, organizations should implement regular kernel security updates and monitoring for similar memory safety issues that may affect other display driver components or kernel subsystems. The fix demonstrates proper error handling and connector type validation practices that should be implemented across similar kernel driver code to prevent analogous vulnerabilities in other display subsystem components.