Linux kernel netfilter use-after-free vulnerability can lead to local privilege escalation

CVE-2024-1086

What is CVE-2024-1086?

CVE-2024-1086 is a severe vulnerability found in the Linux kernel's netfilter component, which handles network packet filtering. This use-after-free vulnerability can be exploited to achieve local privilege escalation, potentially allowing an attacker to gain higher-level privileges on the affected system. As the Linux kernel underpins many operating systems and applications, the exploitation of this flaw could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive system functionalities, making it a critical concern for organizations that rely on Linux-based environments.

Technical Details

The vulnerability arises from inappropriate handling of positive drop error values within the nft_verdict_init() function in the netfilter's nf_tables subsystem. Specifically, the nf_hook_slow() function can unintentionally trigger a double free scenario when it encounters an NF_DROP command accompanied by a drop error that mimics NF_ACCEPT. This flaw can be leveraged by an attacker to manipulate memory allocation, leading to potential arbitrary code execution with escalated privileges.

Impact of the Vulnerability

1. Local Privilege Escalation: Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to elevate their local privileges, gaining unauthorized access to critical system resources and functions that they would not normally have permission to modify or execute.

2. Compromised System Integrity: Successful exploitation could allow attackers to alter system configurations, install malicious software, or alter existing data, undermining the integrity of the system and potentially leading to further compromises.

3. Increased Attack Surface: As the Linux kernel is central to many environments, a vulnerability of this nature increases the overall attack surface of affected systems, making them more attractive targets for further exploitation by attackers, including those involved in ransomware operations.

News Articles

CrowdStrike

CVE-2024-1086

Active Exploitation Observed for Linux Kernel Privilege Escalation Vulnerability (CVE-2024-1086)

Last week, CISA added CVE-2024-1086 to its Known Exploited Vulnerability Catalog. In this blog, we share the details of this vulnerability and how Crowdstrike’s customers are protected from exploitation.

7 months ago

SC Media

CVE-2024-1086

CISA adds Linux kernel flaw to KEV list

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has updated its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog to include a use-after-free security issue impacting Linux kernel versions from 5.14 to 6.6, tracked as CVE-2024-1086, which could be leveraged to enable arbitrary code execution and privileg...

7 months ago

BleepingComputer

CVE-2024-1086

CISA warns of actively exploited Linux privilege elevation flaw

The U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has added two vulnerabilities in its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, including a Linux kernel privilege elevation flaw.

7 months ago

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