CVE-2023-52846·Kernel vulnerability
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: hsr: Prevent use after free in prp_create_tagged_frame() The prp_fill_rct() function can fail. In that situation, it frees the skb and returns NULL. Meanwhile on the success path, it returns the original skb. So it's straight forward to fix bug by using the returned value.
- Severity
- high
- Software
- Kernel
- Fixed in
- 6.6.2
- Published
- 2024-05-21
Affected versions
From: 6.6
Until: 6.6.2
Fixed in: 6.6.2
How to fix this CVE
Update your Linux kernel to version 6.6.2 or later to resolve this memory safety issue in the HSR/PRP (High-availability Seamless Redundancy) protocol handler. The vulnerability exists in the prp_create_tagged_frame() function where improper error handling can lead to use-after-free conditions. Prioritize this update for systems running kernel 6.6.0–6.6.2 that handle redundant network traffic.
sudo dnf update kernel kernel-develDefensia detects this vulnerability
How to check if you are affected
- Step 1: Check your kernel version with `uname -r` and compare against affected range 6.6.0–6.6.2
- Step 2: Verify HSR/PRP module is loaded by running `lsmod | grep hsr` and `lsmod | grep prp`
- Step 3: Search kernel logs for memory corruption or oops messages related to prp_create_tagged_frame() using `dmesg | grep -i 'prp\|hsr\|use.after.free'`
- Step 4: After updating, confirm new kernel version with `uname -r` and verify it is 6.6.2 or later
FAQ
What is CVE-2023-52846?
This vulnerability is a use-after-free condition in the Linux kernel's HSR/PRP protocol implementation, specifically in the prp_create_tagged_frame() function. When the prp_fill_rct() helper function fails, it frees the network packet buffer (skb) but the calling code may still attempt to use the freed memory, leading to potential system crash or code execution.
Is CVE-2023-52846 being actively exploited?
No, this CVE is not listed in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog and no public exploit code is currently available. However, the high CVSS score (7.8) reflects its potential impact and it should still be prioritized for patching.
What versions of Kernel are affected by CVE-2023-52846?
Linux kernel versions 6.6.0, 6.6.1, and 6.6.2 are affected. The vulnerability was introduced in kernel 6.6.0 and resolved in 6.6.3 and later stable releases.
How do I check if my server is vulnerable to CVE-2023-52846?
Run `uname -r` to display your kernel version. If it shows 6.6.0, 6.6.1, or 6.6.2, your system is vulnerable. You can also check `cat /proc/version` for additional kernel details.
Does Defensia detect CVE-2023-52846?
Yes — Defensia's CVE advisory scanner compares installed package versions against the NVD database. If the Linux kernel is installed on a monitored server, CVE-2023-52846 will appear in your dashboard with remediation steps.
Related Kernel CVEs
References
- https://git.kernel.org/stable/c/1787b9f0729d318d67cf7c5a95f0c3dba9a7cc18
- https://git.kernel.org/stable/c/6086258bd5ea7b5c706ff62da42b8e271b2401db
- https://git.kernel.org/stable/c/876f8ab52363f649bcc74072157dfd7adfbabc0d
- https://git.kernel.org/stable/c/a1a485e45d24b1cd8fe834fd6f1b06e2903827da
- https://git.kernel.org/stable/c/d103fb6726904e353b4773188ee3d3acb4078363
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