Linux Kernel NULL Pointer Dereference Vulnerability in Micrel PHY Driver

A vulnerability in the Linux kernel's handling of Micrel PHY drivers can lead to a NULL pointer dereference. This issue occurs when the .probe function is defined in the phy_driver structure without accompanying .driver_data. The absence of .driver_data triggers a NULL pointer dereference. The vulnerability has been addressed by allowing the .probe function to be used without .driver_data, adding NULL checks to prevent the dereference.

Impact

Exploitation of this vulnerability can cause a NULL pointer dereference, leading to a crash of the kernel or the affected process.