The Linux kernel contains a vulnerability that may lead to information
leakage due to corrupted partition tables.
The kernel automatically evaluates partition tables of storage devices.
This happens independently of whether any auto-mounting is enabled or
not. The code for evaluating OSF partition tables contains a buffer
overflow bug that allows to leak data from the kernel heap to userspace.
Compile and use a kernel that does not evaluate OSF partition tables.
The corresponding configuration key is CONFIG_OSF_PARTITION.
The bug has been fixed in Linux kernel 2.6.38.
When further information becomes available, this advisory will be
updated. The most recent version of this advisory is available at:
http://www.pre-cert.de/advisories/PRE-SA-2011-02.txt
PRE-CERT can be reached under [email protected]. For PGP key
information, refer to http://www.pre-cert.de/.