CVE-2021-38205: Low severity Linux Linux kernel vulnerability

Published Aug 8, 2021
·
Updated

drivers/net/ethernet/xilinx/xilinxemaclite.c in the Linux kernel before 5.13.3 makes it easier for attackers to defeat an ASLR protection mechanism because it prints a kernel pointer (i.e., the real IOMEM pointer).

Affected Software

3 affected componentsFixes available
Linux Linux kernel<5.13.3
Debian Debian Linux=9.0
debian/linux
5.10.223-15.10.234-16.1.129-16.1.135-16.12.25-16.12.27-1

Remediation

Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.

  1. Upgrade

    Upgrade debian/linux to 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 6.12.25-1Fixed in 6.12.27-1
  2. Upgrade

    Upgrade Linux kernel (drivers/net/ethernet/xilinx/xilinx_emaclite.c) to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 5.13.3

Event History

Aug 8, 2021
CVE Published
via MITRE·07:23 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·07:23 PM
Description
Data Sourced
via NVD·08:15 PM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
Jan 12, 2024
Data Sourced
via Launchpad·12:00 AM
Description
Apr 28, 2025
Data Sourced
via Ubuntu·04:30 AM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2021-38205?

CVE-2021-38205 is considered a medium severity vulnerability due to its potential to assist attackers in defeating ASLR protections.

2

How do I fix CVE-2021-38205?

To fix CVE-2021-38205, update your Linux kernel to version 5.13.3 or later, or apply the specific patches provided by your distribution.

3

What systems are affected by CVE-2021-38205?

CVE-2021-38205 affects Linux kernel versions prior to 5.13.3 and specific versions of Debian Linux, including Debian 9.0.

4

What consequences can arise from exploiting CVE-2021-38205?

Exploiting CVE-2021-38205 can lead to information disclosure that compromises kernel memory integrity and undermines ASLR protections.

5

Is there a known exploit for CVE-2021-38205?

As of now, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting CVE-2021-38205, but the vulnerability poses a risk if left unpatched.

Contact

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