CVE-2023-33951: Kernel: vmwgfx: race condition leading to information disclosure vulnerability
A race condition vulnerability was found in the vmwgfx driver in the Linux kernel. Quoting ZDI security advisory [1]:
"This vulnerability allows local attackers to disclose sensitive information on affected installations of Linux Kernel. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute high-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.
The specific flaw exists within the handling of GEM objects. The issue results from the lack of proper locking when performing operations on an object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to disclose information in the context of the kernel."
[1] https://www.zerodayinitiative.com/advisories/ZDI-CAN-20110/
Other sources
A race condition vulnerability was found in the vmwgfx driver in the Linux kernel. The flaw exists within the handling of GEM objects. The issue results from improper locking when performing operations on an object. This flaw allows a local privileged user to disclose information in the context of the kernel.
Linux Kernel could allow a local authenticated attacker to obtain sensitive information, caused by a race condition in the handling of GEM objects. By sending a specially crafted HTTP request, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to obtain sensitive information in the context of the kernel, or cause a denial of service condition.
— IBM
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
redhat/kernelto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 6.4 - Compensating control
Mitigate by preventing the affected `vmwgfx` kernel module from being loaded (e.g., blacklist the `vmwgfx` kernel module as described in the referenced Red Hat solution 41278).
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2023-33951?
CVE-2023-33951 is a vulnerability in the vmwgfx driver in the Linux Kernel, which allows local attackers to disclose sensitive information on affected installations.
How does the Linux Kernel vmwgfx Driver Race Condition Information Disclosure Vulnerability work?
The vulnerability occurs due to a race condition in the handling of the vmwgfx driver in the Linux Kernel, allowing local attackers with high-privileged code execution to disclose sensitive information.
What is the severity of CVE-2023-33951?
The severity of CVE-2023-33951 is medium with a CVSS score of 6.7.
Which software is affected by CVE-2023-33951?
Affected software includes Linux Kernel versions up to and excluding 6.4, Linux Kernel in general, Redhat Enterprise Linux 8.0, and Redhat Enterprise Linux 9.0.
How can I fix the Linux Kernel vmwgfx Driver Race Condition Information Disclosure Vulnerability?
To fix the vulnerability, update the Linux Kernel to version 6.4 or apply the necessary patches provided by the respective vendors.