CVE-2024-53200 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 12/27/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
drm/amd/display: Fix null check for pipe_ctx->plane_state in hwss_setup_dpp
This commit addresses a null pointer dereference issue in hwss_setup_dpp(). The issue could occur when pipe_ctx->plane_state is null. The fix adds a check to ensure `pipe_ctx->plane_state` is not null before accessing. This prevents a null pointer dereference.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-53200 represents a critical null pointer dereference flaw within the Linux kernel's AMD display driver subsystem. This issue specifically affects the drm/amd/display component where the hwss_setup_dpp function fails to properly validate pointer references before accessing memory locations. The flaw exists in the graphics processing pipeline where the kernel attempts to process display plane states without first confirming that these references contain valid data structures. Such a condition can arise during complex display configuration scenarios or when handling multiple display outputs simultaneously, creating a scenario where the system may attempt to dereference a null pointer during hardware state setup operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the display hardware state setup function. When the pipe_ctx->plane_state pointer is null, the system proceeds to access this invalid memory reference without proper null checking mechanisms. This type of flaw falls under CWE-476 which specifically addresses null pointer dereference conditions in software implementations. The function hwss_setup_dpp operates within the AMD display driver's hardware state setup routines and is responsible for configuring display plane parameters before hardware rendering operations begin. The absence of proper null checks creates an execution path where a kernel panic or system crash can occur, potentially leading to complete system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system crashes to encompass potential security implications within the kernel's graphics processing subsystem. When exploited, this null pointer dereference can cause denial of service conditions that may affect display functionality across all AMD graphics hardware supported by the kernel. The vulnerability particularly impacts systems running with AMD display drivers where multiple display outputs are configured or when dynamic display topology changes occur. Attackers could potentially leverage this condition to cause system instability or create persistent denial of service conditions, especially in server or workstation environments where reliable display functionality is critical for system management and user interaction.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-53200 involve implementing proper null pointer validation within the affected kernel subsystem before any memory access operations occur. The fix introduced in the commit ensures that pipe_ctx->plane_state is checked for null values prior to accessing the referenced structure. This approach aligns with standard defensive programming practices and follows the principle of input validation as recommended by various cybersecurity frameworks. System administrators should prioritize applying the kernel updates that contain this fix, particularly in environments where AMD graphics hardware is extensively used. Additionally, monitoring for system crashes or display-related instability following kernel updates can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The fix demonstrates proper adherence to ATT&CK framework concepts related to privilege escalation and system stability compromise, as it prevents unauthorized code execution through kernel memory corruption vulnerabilities that could otherwise be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks.