Kernel space: Linux security non-modules and AppArmor
Long-time LWN readers will know that the Linux security module (LSM) API is controversial at best. To many, it has failed in its purpose, which is enabling the development of competing approaches to hardened Linux system; the only significant in-tree security module remains SELinux. Meanwhile, the LSM interface is easily abused; since it allows the insertion of hooks into almost any system operation of interest, it can be used by other modules to provide non-security functionality. The LSM symbols are mostly exported GPL-only, but it is still possible for binary-only modules to abuse the LSM operations - and, apparently, some have done so.
SELinux hacker James Morris has been pondering this issue recently; he has also noticed that the in-tree security modules (SELinux and the small module implementing capabilities) cannot be unloaded. So, he asked, why implement a modular interface at all?
There have been a few complaints, but, from the author's point of view, it does not seem like anybody has come up with a compelling reason why it must be possible to unload security modules.
One such module is AppArmor - the GPL-licensed security mechanism distributed by Novell.
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