Welcome to LinuxPatch, where we aim to keep our users informed and secure. Today, we delve into a recently identified vulnerability in the Linux kernel, specifically affecting USB functionality within applications utilizing the FFS (Function Filesystem) interface. This vulnerability, known as CVE-2024-36894, has been classified with a medium security risk and a score of 5.6. Understanding and addressing this issue is crucial for maintaining the integrity and stability of your Linux systems.
CVE-2024-36894 involves a potential race condition between two asynchronous operations in the handling of USB requests in Linux's FFS. The affected function, aio_cancel(), is used by FFS-based applications to cancel pending USB requests. The vulnerability surfaces when an aio_cancel() call and an AIO request completion happen concurrently, particularly under conditions like a soft disconnect handled by the UDC (USB Device Controller).
The core of this issue arises from a lack of proper locking mechanisms between the AIO completion handler and the AIO cancel routine, leading to the possibility of accessing a freed request object. Such a scenario not only leads to instability but can also result in unpredictable behavior or crashes of the impacted system.
This issue predominantly affects systems that incorporate DWC3 USB gadget implementations within the Linux kernel. The vulnerability directly impacts the reliability of USB operations and could potentially affect any Linux system utilizing the affected kernel module concerned with USB communications and operations.
The technical glimpse into the race condition reveals a complex interaction between multiple kernel functions handling USB requests. The functions include dwc3_gadget_soft_disconnect(), dwc3_stop_active_transfers(), and others that operate in sync to manage USB functionality. The absence of a locking mechanism allows an already freed USB request to be referenced again, leading to the vulnerability.
Developers have proposed a fix that involves adjustments in the handling of the USB request freeing mechanism. By altering where the request freeing occurs and implementing proper synchronization, the patch ensures that an aio_cancel() either completes before the request is freed or properly handles the scenario where the request might have been prematurely freed.
Users running the affected version of the Linux kernel may experience device malfunctions or data integrity issues if the race condition is triggered. It’s crucial for administrators and users of Linux systems to understand the risks associated with this vulnerability and to apply the necessary patches or updates to mitigate potential impacts.
LinuxPatch recommends applying the patch related to CVE-2024-36894 immediately. Visit our website at LinuxPatch.com to access comprehensive patch management solutions that can help streamline and secure your Linux servers. Staying proactive about such vulnerabilities is key to maintaining a robust defensive posture against potential cyber threats.
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