CVE-2021-47485: IB/qib: Protect from buffer overflow in struct qib_user_sdma_pkt fields
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
IB/qib: Protect from buffer overflow in struct qib_user_sdma_pkt fields
Overflowing either addrlimit or bytes_togo can allow userspace to trigger
a buffer overflow of kernel memory. Check for overflows in all the places
doing math on user controlled buffers.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
CVE-2021-47485 is a Linux kernel flaw in the IB/qib code. A local userspace-controlled buffer calculation can overflow and lead to kernel memory buffer overflow. The sources do not provide CVSS, public exploitation evidence, or business-impact details.
Executive priority
Handle through normal kernel patch governance, with higher priority for multi-user or high-performance Linux systems using IB/qib. No source supports emergency treatment for active exploitation.
Technical view
The issue is integer overflow handling around struct qib_user_sdma_pkt fields addrlimit and bytes_togo. Overflow in math on user-controlled buffers could trigger kernel memory buffer overflow. Linux stable commits add overflow checks across the relevant calculations.
Likely exposure
Exposure is most likely on Linux systems running affected kernel versions where IB/qib functionality is present and reachable by local userspace. Internet-facing remote exposure is not indicated by the provided sources.
Exploitation context
The source describes userspace triggering kernel memory overflow, so treat this as local attack surface. The CVE is not listed as KEV, and the bundle provides no evidence of active exploitation or public exploit availability.
Researcher notes
The record lacks CVSS and CWE mappings. Analysis should focus on the stable commit deltas and reachable qib userspace paths. Avoid assuming privilege escalation or remote reach without additional vendor evidence.
Mitigation direction
Apply Linux kernel or distribution updates containing the referenced stable fixes.
Prioritize systems using IB/qib functionality or affected kernel branches.
Check vendor advisories for supported fixed package versions.
If IB/qib is unnecessary, review vendor-supported options to disable exposure.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux kernel versions across servers and appliances.
Check whether affected kernels include the referenced stable commits.
Identify systems where IB/qib functionality is loaded or required.
Confirm distribution security updates are installed and active after reboot.
Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.
Potential ATT&CK relevance
Conservative CVE-to-ATT&CK context
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ATT&CK lookup starting points
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CVE-2021-47485 mapping review
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