Memory Leak in Linux Kernel Crypto Module

Executive Summary

This is a Linux kernel vulnerability in the Marvell Octeontx cryptographic driver. It involves incorrect DMA cleanup where the wrong loop index is used to unmap buffers. Specifically, the code uses list[i] instead of list[j] when unmapping DMA buffers, causing some mapped entries to leak while repeatedly unmapping the failed one.

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Detection Guidance

This vulnerability is specific to the Linux kernel's Marvell OcteonTX crypto driver and requires kernel-level inspection. Detection involves checking kernel logs for DMA cleanup errors or examining the driver's source code for the sg_cleanup path using the wrong loop index. No direct network detection commands are applicable.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability could lead to memory leaks and potential system instability due to improper DMA buffer cleanup. It may cause performance degradation or crashes in systems using the affected Marvell Octeontx cryptographic driver.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability does not directly affect compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar standards as it pertains to a low-level kernel memory management issue in the Linux crypto subsystem. No evidence suggests data exposure or privacy violations that would trigger regulatory non-compliance.

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Mitigation Strategies

Apply the latest Linux kernel security patches that include the fix for this issue. Monitor kernel logs for DMA-related errors in the OcteonTX crypto driver. If using affected Marvell OcteonTX hardware, consider disabling the vulnerable crypto driver module until patched.

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