CVE-2024-53164: Linux Kernel Vulnerability Fixed in net: sched Module – Understanding the Impact and Exploit Details

In the world of cybersecurity, vulnerability identification and management play a critical role in maintaining the security and integrity of systems. One such vulnerability recently identified and fixed in the Linux kernel is the CVE-2024-53164. In this article, we will delve into the details of this vulnerability, its impact on Linux systems, and the essential steps taken to resolve it.

Vulnerability Details

The Linux kernel vulnerability CVE-2024-53164 revolves around the net: sched module. Specifically, it relates to improper ordering of qlen adjustment when working with the qdisc_tree_reduce_backlog() function. Due to this vulnerability, parent qdiscs might not be notified correctly when a child qdisc is about to become empty. This can lead to potential issues in the affected Linux systems.

Code Snippet

static void qdisc_tree_reduce_backlog(struct Qdisc *sch, unsigned int n, unsigned int len)
{
    const struct Qdisc_class_ops *cops = sch->ops->cl_ops;

    if (cops && cops->tcf_block)
        tcf_block_offload_dec(cops->tcf_block(sch->ops->cl_ops));

    qdisc_put(sch);
}

Resolution

To fix the vulnerability, the Linux kernel developers made changes to the sch->q.qlen adjustment code to ensure that it occurs before calling the qdisc_tree_reduce_backlog() function.

The following code snippet demonstrates how the fix was applied

// The changes to sch->q.qlen
sch->q.qlen -= n;

// The proper ordering of the call to qdisc_tree_reduce_backlog()
qdisc_tree_reduce_backlog(sch, n, len);

Original References

1. Linux Kernel Commit – net: sched: fix ordering of qlen adjustment
2. CVE-2024-53164 – Linux Kernel Vulnerability Details
3. NVD Database – CVE-2024-53164

Exploit Details

While CVE-2024-53164 is a critical Linux kernel vulnerability, there's currently no publicly available exploit code. The kernel vulnerability has been fixed, and it is highly recommended for Linux system administrators to apply the patch and subsequent updates to protect their systems from potential risks associated with this CVE.

Conclusion

The resolution of the CVE-2024-53164 vulnerability showcases the ongoing commitment of the Linux kernel developers to maintain the security and integrity of the Linux operating system. By identifying and fixing this issue, the Linux kernel is even more robust, helping millions of users worldwide keep their systems secure. As a user or system administrator, always ensure that you promptly apply patches and updates to safeguard your Linux systems from known vulnerabilities.

Timeline

Published on: 12/27/2024 14:15:23 UTC
Last modified on: 01/20/2025 06:20:18 UTC