Out-of-Bounds Array Access in Linux Kernel QMP USBC DP Driver

Executive Summary

This is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to the Qualcomm QMP-USBC PHY driver. It involves an out-of-bounds array access in the DisplayPort (DP) swing configuration. The issue occurs because the boundary check for two arrays (swing_tbl and pre_emphasis_tbl) uses a condition that allows index 4 to be accessed, even though the arrays are only 4x4 (valid indices 0-3). This can lead to memory corruption or crashes.

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Detection Guidance

This vulnerability is specific to the Linux kernel's phy: qcom: qmp-usbc driver and involves an out-of-bounds array access in the DP swing configuration. Detection requires checking the kernel version and the presence of the affected driver. Use commands like 'uname -a' to check the kernel version and 'lsmod | grep qmp_usbc' to verify if the vulnerable driver is loaded.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability could cause system instability, crashes, or potential privilege escalation if exploited. It primarily affects systems using the Linux kernel with Qualcomm USB-C/DisplayPort hardware. Users might experience unexpected system freezes, data corruption, or security breaches if an attacker triggers the out-of-bounds access.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability is a low-level kernel memory corruption issue in the Linux USB PHY driver. It does not directly impact compliance with standards like GDPR or HIPAA, as those focus on data protection and privacy controls rather than kernel memory safety.

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Mitigation Strategies

Update the Linux kernel to a patched version that resolves this issue. If the affected driver is loaded, consider unloading it with 'rmmod qmp_usbc' if not critical. Monitor vendor advisories for kernel updates addressing this CVE.

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