CVE-2024-40934 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 07/12/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
HID: logitech-dj: Fix memory leak in logi_dj_recv_switch_to_dj_mode()
Fix a memory leak on logi_dj_recv_send_report() error path.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2024-40934 represents a memory leak issue within the Linux kernel's HID (Human Interface Device) subsystem, specifically affecting the Logitech Unifying Receiver driver implementation. This flaw exists in the logitech-dj module which handles communication with Logitech's wireless devices using the Unifying protocol. The vulnerability manifests during error handling scenarios when the logi_dj_recv_send_report() function encounters failures, leading to improper memory deallocation. The issue stems from the driver's inability to correctly release allocated memory resources when transitioning to the DJ (Dongle Join) mode, creating a persistent memory leak that can accumulate over time and potentially impact system stability.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper error handling path within the logitech-dj driver implementation. When logi_dj_recv_send_report() function fails during operations related to switching receiver modes, the memory allocation that occurred prior to the error condition is not properly freed. This memory leak follows the CWE-401: Improper Release of Memory Before Removing Last Reference pattern, where allocated memory resources are not correctly deallocated during error conditions. The flaw specifically affects the logi_dj_recv_switch_to_dj_mode() function which is responsible for managing the transition between different communication modes for Logitech Unifying Receivers. The vulnerability is classified as a memory management issue that can lead to progressive memory consumption within the kernel space.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory waste, potentially affecting system performance and stability over extended periods of use. While the immediate effect may appear minimal, repeated occurrences of this memory leak can lead to progressive memory exhaustion, particularly in systems with high device interaction rates or continuous operation scenarios. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernels with the logitech-dj driver enabled, typically impacting desktop computers, laptops, and servers that utilize Logitech wireless peripherals through Unifying receivers. The memory leak could contribute to system slowdowns, reduced available memory for other processes, and in extreme cases, potential system instability or crashes. This issue particularly impacts environments where multiple Logitech devices are continuously connected and actively communicating with the system through the Unifying protocol.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-40934 involve applying the official kernel patch that resolves the memory leak in the logitech-dj driver's error handling path. System administrators should prioritize updating their Linux kernel versions to include the fix, which addresses the improper memory deallocation during error conditions in the logi_dj_recv_switch_to_dj_mode() function. Organizations should implement regular kernel update procedures to ensure all systems receive the necessary security patches. Additionally, monitoring system memory usage patterns can help detect potential impacts from the memory leak before they escalate to more serious performance issues. The fix aligns with the ATT&CK framework's defensive techniques related to maintaining system integrity and preventing resource exhaustion attacks. In environments where immediate patching is not feasible, administrators can consider disabling the logitech-dj driver module when Logitech wireless devices are not actively in use, though this represents a temporary workaround rather than a permanent solution to the underlying memory management issue.