#VU4199 Buffer overflow in Linux kernel - CVE-2012-2319

Vulnerability identifier: #VU4199

Vulnerability risk: Critical

CVSSv4.0: 8.5 [CVSS:4.0/AV:L/AC:L/AT:N/PR:L/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:A/U:Red]

CVE-ID: CVE-2012-2319

CWE-ID: CWE-119

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Linux kernel
Operating systems & Components / Operating system

Vendor: Linux Foundation

Description
The vulnerability allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The weakness exists due to buffer overflow in the driver within HFS plus filesystem. By using a specially crafted Hierarchical File System (HFS) filesystem, a local attacker can trigger memory corruption and execute arbitrary code with system privileges.

Successful exploitation of the vulnerability results in arbitrary code execution on the vulnerable system.

Note: the vulnerability was being actively exploited.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Linux kernel: 2.6.0 - 2.6.36 rc3, 3.2 - 3.2.1, 3.3.3

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External links
https://www.kernel.org/

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

No. This vulnerability can be exploited locally. The attacker should have authentication credentials and successfully authenticate on the system.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, a fully functional exploit for this vulnerability is available.