CVE-2024-0217: Packagekitd: use-after-free in idle function callback
A use-after-free flaw was found in PackageKitd. In some conditions, the order of cleanup mechanics for a transaction could be impacted. As a result, some memory access could occur on memory regions that were previously freed. Once freed, a memory region can be reused for other allocations and any previously stored data in this memory region is considered lost.
Other sources
PackageKit relies on “transactions” as a work unit to wrap package manager actions, these transactions are created by the user and freed when no longer in use or when a terminal error is emitted. It was observed that under some conditions, the order of cleanup mechanics for a transaction could be impacted. As a result, some memory accesses could occur on memory regions that were previously freed. Once freed, a memory region can be reused for other allocations and any previously stored data in this memory region is considered lost. Usage of memory after it is cleaned is named Use-After-Free (UAF). The most reliable way a transaction can be made to be cleaned whilst still running is by having a task for a package backend (dnf in our case) and simultaneously causing an error or successful termination of another task for that same transaction.
— Red Hat
Affected Software
Remediation
Patch Available
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2024-0217?
CVE-2024-0217 is classified with a high severity due to the potential for exploitation through use-after-free vulnerabilities.
How do I fix CVE-2024-0217?
To address CVE-2024-0217, update PackageKit to version 1.2.7 or later.
Which systems are affected by CVE-2024-0217?
CVE-2024-0217 affects PackageKit versions prior to 1.2.7 on Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.0, 9.0, and Fedora 39.
What is a use-after-free vulnerability as seen in CVE-2024-0217?
A use-after-free vulnerability occurs when memory is accessed after it has been freed, potentially leading to unpredictable behavior or crashes.
Can CVE-2024-0217 be exploited remotely?
Yes, CVE-2024-0217 could potentially be exploited remotely if an attacker can manipulate transactions within the affected PackageKit service.