CVE-2020-14351: Use After Free
A flaw in the Linux kernels perf subsystem could allow a local attacker with permission to monitor perf events (either through CAPSYSADMIN or a modification to /proc/sys/kernel/perfeventparanoid ) to create an environment where a use-after-free flaw could take place allowing them to corrupt memory and possibly escalate privileges.
The Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7.2 and later kernels default to a safe /proc/sys/kernel/perfeventparanoid setting, however local administrators may have reason to change the setting to allow non privileged users to monitor performance statistics.
Upstream kernel documentation recommends not modifying this value and instead creating a perfusers group as outlined in ther documentation:
https://www.kernel.org/doc/html/latest/admin-guide/perf-security.html
Other sources
A flaw was found in the Linux kernel. A use-after-free memory flaw was found in the perf subsystem allowing a local attacker with permission to monitor perf events to corrupt memory and possibly escalate privileges. The highest threat from this vulnerability is to data confidentiality and integrity as well as system availability.
Affected Software
Remediation
Information
Patch Available
Event History
Parent advisories
This vulnerability appears in the following advisories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2020-14351?
CVE-2020-14351 is considered a medium severity vulnerability due to its potential to allow local attackers to exploit use-after-free conditions.
How do I fix CVE-2020-14351?
To fix CVE-2020-14351, update to the patched kernel versions specified in the remediation for your operating system.
Who is affected by CVE-2020-14351?
CVE-2020-14351 affects local users with permission to monitor perf events on Linux systems.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2020-14351?
CVE-2020-14351 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's perf subsystem.
Can CVE-2020-14351 be exploited remotely?
No, CVE-2020-14351 requires local access and specific permissions to be exploited.