CVE-2022-49413 is a high-severity vulnerability in the Linux kernel that affects multiple versions. This vulnerability allows the potential for use-after-free issues due to stale cgroup information being used in the bfq_merge_bio function. The issue arises when processes are migrated to different control groups (cgroups), leading to the erroneous merging of bio requests from different cgroups or dead cgroups.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. This score reflects significant risks associated with the vulnerability, particularly concerning confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Organizations utilizing affected versions of the Linux kernel should be aware of the risks posed by this vulnerability and take immediate action.
As of now, there is no confirmed public exploit available, but the nature of the vulnerability suggests that it could be exploited in various scenarios. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate potential risks.
Given the high severity and the potential for exploitation, it is crucial for organizations to address this vulnerability as part of their urgent patch management cycle.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows the bfq_merge_bio function to operate with stale cgroup information in bic. When a process is migrated to a different cgroup, it can lead to merging requests inappropriately, resulting in potential use-after-free issues. The official CVE description highlights the need for updating cgroup information in bfq_merge_bio to mitigate this vulnerability.
The vulnerability has a base CVSS score of 7.8, classified as high severity. This score indicates that exploitation could lead to significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The affected product is the Linux kernel, and the following CWE classification applies: CWE-416.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is tied to how the bfq_merge_bio function interacts with cgroup information. Specifically, when processes are migrated between cgroups, the function can utilize outdated cgroup information, leading to incorrect bio merging. The attack vector for this vulnerability is local, requiring low privileges and presenting a low attack complexity.
The required privileges for exploitation are low, meaning that an attacker could potentially leverage this vulnerability without extensive permissions. Additionally, no user interaction is necessary for exploitation, increasing the risk.
Impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are high, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations relying on the Linux kernel.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes the potential for unauthorized access and data compromise due to the exploitation of this vulnerability. The blast radius could be significant, affecting multiple systems using the Linux kernel across various environments.
With a CVSS score of 7.8, this vulnerability should be treated with high urgency. Organizations must prioritize patching it within their immediate patch management cycles to prevent potential exploitation.
The exploitation status indicates that there are no known exploits at this time; however, the nature of the vulnerability suggests it could be exploited in the future if not addressed promptly.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of the Linux kernel include: - All versions from 4.12 up to, but not including, 5.4.198 - All versions from 5.5 up to, but not including, 5.10.121 - All versions from 5.11 up to, but not including, 5.15.46 - All versions from 5.16 up to, but not including, 5.17.14 - All versions from 5.18 up to, but not including, 5.18.3 Organizations should ensure they are running patched versions to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The Linux kernel has released patches that resolve this vulnerability. Ensure systems are updated to the latest kernel version that addresses this issue. Additionally, organizations can consider implementing configuration hardening and network controls to further mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
For more information on penetration testing and security assessments, organizations can explore our penetration testing services to ensure their systems are secure.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of exploitation attempts. Look for behavioral anomalies that may indicate misuse of cgroup functionalities. Implement network signatures that can detect potential exploitation scenarios, and routinely check for any unauthorized system changes that could exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date systems and understanding the potential impacts of kernel vulnerabilities. Security teams should remain vigilant and proactive in their vulnerability management processes to mitigate risks effectively.
For further reading on vulnerability management strategies, organizations may refer to our vulnerability management program. Additionally, our articles on penetration testing methodology and API penetration testing can provide valuable insights for strengthening security postures.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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