CVE-2023-53426
📋 TL;DR
A use-after-free vulnerability in the Linux kernel's AF_XDP socket diagnostics interface allows local attackers to potentially crash the system or execute arbitrary code. This affects systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions with AF_XDP sockets enabled. Only local users with appropriate privileges can exploit this vulnerability.
💻 Affected Systems
- Linux kernel
📦 What is this software?
Linux Kernel by Linux
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, serving as the critical interface between computer hardware and software processes. As the heart of millions of servers, cloud infrastructure, embedded systems, Android devices, and IoT deployments worldwide, the Linux Kernel mana...
Learn more about Linux Kernel →Linux Kernel by Linux
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, serving as the critical interface between computer hardware and software processes. As the heart of millions of servers, cloud infrastructure, embedded systems, Android devices, and IoT deployments worldwide, the Linux Kernel mana...
Learn more about Linux Kernel →Linux Kernel by Linux
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, serving as the critical interface between computer hardware and software processes. As the heart of millions of servers, cloud infrastructure, embedded systems, Android devices, and IoT deployments worldwide, the Linux Kernel mana...
Learn more about Linux Kernel →Linux Kernel by Linux
The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, serving as the critical interface between computer hardware and software processes. As the heart of millions of servers, cloud infrastructure, embedded systems, Android devices, and IoT deployments worldwide, the Linux Kernel mana...
Learn more about Linux Kernel →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Local privilege escalation to kernel-level code execution, leading to complete system compromise.
Likely Case
Kernel panic or system crash causing denial of service.
If Mitigated
No impact if AF_XDP sockets are not used or proper access controls restrict local users.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires local access and knowledge of AF_XDP socket operations. No public exploits known at this time.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Patches available in stable kernel versions referenced in CVE
Vendor Advisory: https://git.kernel.org/stable/c/3e019d8a05a38abb5c85d4f1e85fda964610aa14
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Update Linux kernel to patched version. 2. Check distribution-specific security advisories. 3. Reboot system after kernel update.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable AF_XDP sockets
linuxPrevent use of AF_XDP sockets if not required
# No simple command - requires kernel configuration or module blacklisting
Restrict local user access
linuxLimit local user privileges to reduce attack surface
# Use standard Linux access controls and privilege separation
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict access controls to limit local user privileges
- Monitor for abnormal system crashes or kernel panics
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check kernel version and if AF_XDP sockets are enabled. Vulnerable if using unpatched kernel with AF_XDP support.Check Version:
uname -rVerify Fix Applied:
Verify kernel version is updated to patched version and system is stable after AF_XDP socket operations.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Kernel panics
- System crashes
- AF_XDP related errors in kernel logs
Network Indicators:
- None - local vulnerability only
SIEM Query:
Search for kernel panic events or AF_XDP related errors in system logs