Title: Linux Kernel File Lock Local Denial Of Service Vulnerability
Severity: MODERATE
Description:
A local denial of service vulnerability reportedly affects the Linux kernel. This issue arises due to a failure of the kernel to properly handle malicious, excessive file locks.
The problem presents itself when an excessive number of files are created, opened, and locked exclusively. Reportedly 920 such files locked exclusively with the 'flock()' function will be sufficient. Apparently, by accessing and reading specific data from the '/proc/locks' file after invoking a 'sync' command, it is possible to trigger a denial of service condition.
An attacker may leverage this issue to crash or hang the affected kernel and deny service to legitimate users.
Although this issue is reported to affect version 2.6.10 of the Linux kernel, it is possible other versions are affected as well.
It should be noted that Symantec has been unable to reproduce this issue after testing.
It should be noted that Symantec has been unable to reproduce this issue after testing. It is possible that this vulnerability is linked to the reporter's specific configuration. More information will be added as it becomes available.
Affected Products:
- Linux kernel 2.6.10
- RedHat Fedora Core2
- RedHat Fedora Core3
- Ubuntu Ubuntu Linux 5.0.0 4 amd64
- Ubuntu Ubuntu Linux 5.0.0 4 i386
- Ubuntu Ubuntu Linux 5.0.0 4 powerpc
References:
- Linux Kernel: kernel.org Homepage.
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