CVE-2023-3161: Medium severity Linux Linux kernel vulnerability
A flaw was found in the Framebuffer Console (fbcon) in the Linux Kernel. When providing font->width and font->height greater than 32 to fbconsetfont, since there are no checks in place, a shift-out-of-bounds occurs leading to undefined behavior and possible denial of service.
Other sources
Linux Kernel is vulnerable to a denial of service, caused by a shift-out-of-bounds flaw in the fbconsetfont() function. By sending a specially crafted request, a remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability to cause a denial of service condition.
— IBM
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
debian/linuxto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 5.10.223-1Fixed in 5.10.234-1Fixed in 6.1.129-1Fixed in 6.1.135-1Fixed in 6.12.22-1Fixed in 6.12.25-1 - Upgrade
Upgrade
redhat/kernelto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 6.2 - Upgrade
Upgrade
Linux Kernel fbcon (fbcon_set_font)to a version that resolves this vulnerability.Patch 2b09d5d364986f724f17001ccfe4126b9b43a0be - Compensating control
If you can, prevent untrusted remote input from reaching the affected fbcon font-setting path (since the issue is triggered by providing font->width and font->height values greater than 32 to fbcon_set_font).
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2023-3161?
CVE-2023-3161 is considered to have a high severity due to the potential for denial of service and undefined behavior in the Linux Kernel.
How do I fix CVE-2023-3161?
To fix CVE-2023-3161, update to a kernel version that is 6.2 or higher or apply the relevant patches provided by your distribution.
What software is affected by CVE-2023-3161?
CVE-2023-3161 affects various versions of the Linux Kernel up to exclusive version 6.2 and also specific IBM Security Verify Governance components.
What is the impact of CVE-2023-3161?
The impact of CVE-2023-3161 includes the possibility of denial of service due to a shift-out-of-bounds condition in the Framebuffer Console.
When was CVE-2023-3161 discovered?
CVE-2023-3161 was disclosed in the year 2023, following the findings related to the Framebuffer Console in the Linux Kernel.