CVE-2018-5703

The tcp_v6_syn_recv_sock function in net/ipv6/tcp_ipv6.c in the Linux kernel through 4.14.11 allows attackers to cause a denial of service (slab out-of-bounds…

published January 16, 2018

CVSS
—
EPSS
3%
Percentile
85.3
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A surprising out-of-bounds write lurks in the Linux kernel's tcp_v6_syn_recv_sock function! This vulnerability could allow a denial of service, targeting systems running through version 4.14.11. 🔥 Think of it like a waiter who keeps serving dishes without checking if the kitchen has enough ingredients — eventually, the plates start piling up, and chaos ensues! In this case, attackers can exploit this oversight to disrupt operations. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to cause a denial of service, making the affected system inaccessible to legitimate users. While it may not lead to immediate data loss, the resulting downtime could be absolutely devastating for service availability.

Put simply

Think of it like a waiter who keeps serving dishes without checking if the kitchen has enough ingredients — eventually, the plates start piling up, and chaos ensues! In this case, attackers can exploit this oversight to disrupt operations. This vulnerability occurs due to a slab out-of-bounds write in the tcp_v6_syn_recv_sock function within the Linux kernel, allowing attackers to manipulate memory in such a way that could lead to a denial of service or other unpredictable effects, particularly concerning TLS connections.

What to do

An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to cause a denial of service, making the affected system inaccessible to legitimate users. While it may not lead to immediate data loss, the resulting downtime could be absolutely devastating for service availability. To mitigate this vulnerability, upgrade to kernel version 4.14.12 or later. Regularly review and apply kernel patches to ensure your systems stay protected from similar issues in the future. You've got this! By staying proactive with your updates, you're taking solid steps to secure your system. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.02630 · 85.3th percentile
Published
2018-01-16T09:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 16 JAN 09:00Z
    The tcp_v6_syn_recv_sock function in net/ipv6/tcp_ipv6.c in the Linux kernel through 4.14.11 allows attackers to cause a denial of service (slab out-of-bounds…
    cvelistv5