CVE-2022-25636 is a high-severity vulnerability found in the Linux kernel, specifically within the net/netfilter/nf_dup_netdev.c file. This vulnerability allows local users to gain privileges due to a heap out-of-bounds write. It is associated with the nf_tables_offload feature and affects versions 5.4 through 5.6.10 of the Linux kernel.
With a CVSS score of 7.8, this vulnerability is classified as high severity. The attack vector is local, meaning that only users with local access can exploit it. The vulnerability has low attack complexity, requires low privileges to execute, and does not require user interaction, making it easier for an attacker to exploit.
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access and the possibility of executing arbitrary code. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are all rated as high, which emphasizes the urgency of addressing this vulnerability to prevent exploitation.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. Ensuring that all affected systems are updated to a secure version of the Linux kernel is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of this vulnerability states that it allows local users to gain privileges due to a heap out-of-bounds write in the Linux kernel versions 5.4 through 5.6.10. The issue is linked to the nf_tables_offload feature.
The CVSS score of 7.8 indicates a high severity level, highlighting the critical nature of this vulnerability. The affected products include various versions of the Linux kernel, Debian Linux, and hardware from NetApp and Oracle.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2022-25636 stems from a heap out-of-bounds write in the Linux kernel. This vulnerability can be exploited through a local attack vector, where an attacker with local access can manipulate the heap memory of the kernel.
The attack complexity is classified as low, and only low privileges are required for exploitation. No user interaction is necessary, which makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous. If successfully exploited, it can lead to high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with this vulnerability is significant. Attackers may leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized privileges, potentially leading to a complete system compromise. The blast radius is considerable, affecting numerous Linux distributions and devices relying on the affected kernel versions.
Organizations must assess the urgency of this vulnerability based on its high CVSS score and exploitability. Immediate remediation actions are necessary to prevent potential breaches or data loss. Failure to address this vulnerability promptly may expose organizations to severe operational disruptions.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability affects various versions of the Linux kernel, including those from 5.4 up to, but not including, 5.4.182; from 5.5 up to, but not including, 5.10.103; from 5.11 up to, but not including, 5.15.26; and from 5.16 up to, but not including, 5.16.12. Additionally, it impacts Debian Linux version 11.0 and various NetApp hardware models.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize applying the relevant patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers. For detailed patch information, consult the continuous penetration testing best practices to ensure any vulnerabilities are effectively addressed.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring for unusual behaviors or anomalies in system logs can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Furthermore, organizations should review network signatures and watch for changes in system integrity that may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2022-25636 illustrates the ongoing risk associated with privilege escalation vulnerabilities in widely used software components. Security teams should assess their environments for exposure to this vulnerability, particularly in systems running affected versions of the Linux kernel. Organizations can benefit from implementing a vulnerability management program to proactively identify and mitigate similar risks in the future. Additionally, leveraging penetration testing methodologies can reveal hidden weaknesses before they are exploited.
Known Exploitation Timeline
As of now, CVE-2022-25636 has not been included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. Organizations are encouraged to remain vigilant and monitor for any updates regarding potential exploitation.
EPSS Risk Context
The EPSS score for this vulnerability is 0.00366, positioned in the 0.5855 percentile. This indicates a low probability of exploitation in the next 30 days, but organizations should not underestimate the risk posed by this vulnerability.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)