CVE-2013-1929: Heap-based buffer overflow in the tg3_read_vpd function in drivers/net/ethernet/broadcom/tg3.c in the Linux...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This is an old Linux kernel driver flaw affecting Broadcom tg3 network hardware handling. A maliciously crafted firmware data field could overflow heap memory, potentially crashing the system and possibly enabling code execution. The key practical limit is access: the CVE describes physically proximate attackers, not remote internet exploitation. Likely exposed systems are Linux hosts running vulnerable pre-3.8.6 kernels or unpatched vendor kernels with Broadcom tg3-supported network adapters. Exposure is most relevant where attackers can influence device firmware or have physical proximity to hardware. Treat as a targeted hardware-adjacent kernel risk, not a mass internet worm scenario. Patch during normal kernel security maintenance, with higher urgency for data centers, shared facilities, or systems with weak physical and firmware controls. Mitigation focus: Apply vendor kernel updates from Ubuntu, Red Hat, SUSE, Mandriva, Fedora, or equivalent distribution guidance.; Ensure kernels include the upstream tg3 fix or a vendor backport of that fix.; Restrict physical access to servers and network adapters until patched..

Prepared

Jun 14, 2026, 22:07 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.