CVE-2023-46841: x86: shadow stack vs exceptions from emulation stubs
First published: Tue Feb 27 2024(Updated: )
Recent x86 CPUs offer functionality named Control-flow Enforcement Technology (CET). A sub-feature of this are Shadow Stacks (CET-SS). CET-SS is a hardware feature designed to protect against Return Oriented Programming attacks. When enabled, traditional stacks holding both data and return addresses are accompanied by so called "shadow stacks", holding little more than return addresses. Shadow stacks aren't writable by normal instructions, and upon function returns their contents are used to check for possible manipulation of a return address coming from the traditional stack. In particular certain memory accesses need intercepting by Xen. In various cases the necessary emulation involves kind of replaying of the instruction. Such replaying typically involves filling and then invoking of a stub. Such a replayed instruction may raise an exceptions, which is expected and dealt with accordingly. Unfortunately the interaction of both of the above wasn't right: Recovery involves removal of a call frame from the (traditional) stack. The counterpart of this operation for the shadow stack was missing.
Credit: security@xen.org
| Affected Software | Affected Version | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| Xen Hypervisor |
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Reference Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2023-46841?
CVE-2023-46841 is classified as a critical vulnerability due to its potential impact on system security.
How do I fix CVE-2023-46841?
To mitigate CVE-2023-46841, ensure that you are using the latest version of the Xen Hypervisor that includes the necessary security patches.
What systems are affected by CVE-2023-46841?
CVE-2023-46841 primarily affects the Xen Hypervisor in environments utilizing x86 CPUs with Control-flow Enforcement Technology.
What is the impact of CVE-2023-46841?
The impact of CVE-2023-46841 includes a heightened risk of Return Oriented Programming attacks if the vulnerability is exploited.
When was CVE-2023-46841 disclosed?
CVE-2023-46841 was disclosed recently as part of ongoing security assessments for x86 CPU vulnerabilities.
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