Linux sysctl() Kernel Memory Reading Vulnerability
BID:2364
Info
Linux sysctl() Kernel Memory Reading Vulnerability
| Bugtraq ID: | 2364 |
| Class: | Boundary Condition Error |
| CVE: | |
| Remote: | No |
| Local: | Yes |
| Published: | Feb 09 2001 12:00AM |
| Updated: | Feb 09 2001 12:00AM |
| Credit: | This vulnerability was discovered by Chris Evans, and announced to Bugtraq in a Red Hat Security Advisory dated February 8, 2001. |
| Vulnerable: |
Redhat kernel-utils-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-source-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-smp-2.2.16-22.i686.rpm Redhat kernel-smp-2.2.16-22.i586.rpm Redhat kernel-smp-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-pcmcia-cs-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-ibcs-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-enterprise-2.2.16-22.i686.rpm Redhat kernel-doc-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-BOOT-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Redhat kernel-2.2.16-22.i686.rpm Redhat kernel-2.2.16-22.i586.rpm Redhat kernel-2.2.16-22.i386.rpm Linux kernel 2.2.18 |
| Not Vulnerable: | |
Discussion
Linux sysctl() Kernel Memory Reading Vulnerability
The Linux Kernel is the core of the Linux Operating System. It was originally written by Linus Torvalds, and is publicly maintained.
A problem in the Linux kernel may allow root compromise. The sysctl() call allows a privileged program to read or write kernel parameters. It is possible for underprivileged programs to use this system call to query values within the kernel. The system call accepts signed values, which could allow supplied negative values to reach below the threshold memory address set for system security.
This makes it possible for a user with malicious motives to browse kernel space addresses, and potentially gain elevated privileges, including administrative access.
The Linux Kernel is the core of the Linux Operating System. It was originally written by Linus Torvalds, and is publicly maintained.
A problem in the Linux kernel may allow root compromise. The sysctl() call allows a privileged program to read or write kernel parameters. It is possible for underprivileged programs to use this system call to query values within the kernel. The system call accepts signed values, which could allow supplied negative values to reach below the threshold memory address set for system security.
This makes it possible for a user with malicious motives to browse kernel space addresses, and potentially gain elevated privileges, including administrative access.