In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified and resolved that pertains to potential null pointer dereference in the start_task() function. This vulnerability arises from the failure to check the return value of create_singlethread_workqueue(), which can return NULL. Consequently, if this happens, a null pointer dereference may occur during the execution of queue_delayed_work(). This can lead to significant availability impact.
The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score for this vulnerability is 5.5, categorizing it as medium severity. The risk to organizations includes a potential denial of service, as the vulnerability allows for high availability impact without requiring user interaction.
Given the nature of this vulnerability, organizations should address it in their priority patch cycle. Ensuring the application of necessary patches will safeguard systems against possible exploitation and subsequent downtime.
Currently, there are no known exploits or proof-of-concept code publicly available for this vulnerability, which suggests that while it is important to patch, the immediate threat level may be lower than other vulnerabilities under active exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability (CVE-2022-50415) affects various versions of the Linux kernel, specifically versions from 2.6.15 up to before 4.9.337, 4.10 up to before 4.14.303, 4.15 up to before 4.19.270, 4.20 up to before 5.4.229, 5.5 up to before 5.10.163, 5.11 up to before 5.15.87, and 5.16 up to before 6.0.18, as well as 6.1 up to before 6.1.4.
The official description highlights that the vulnerability occurs in the start_task function due to the lack of a check on the return value from create_singlethread_workqueue, which can lead to a null pointer dereference and ultimately an access violation.
The vulnerability is classified under CWE-476, which refers to the 'NULL Pointer Dereference' weakness. It poses a risk primarily in terms of availability, making it crucial for organizations using affected versions of the Linux kernel to take immediate action.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the failure to validate the return value of the create_singlethread_workqueue function within the start_task function. If the function call fails and returns NULL, subsequent calls attempting to access the work queue can lead to a null pointer dereference.
The attack vector for this vulnerability is local, meaning an attacker would need local access to the system to exploit it. The attack complexity is rated as low because minimal effort is required to trigger the conditions necessary for exploitation.
Privileges required for exploitation are low, as the attacker would only need user-level privileges. User interaction is not required, allowing for automated exploitation scenarios.
The impact on confidentiality and integrity is rated as none, but the availability impact is rated as high, which underscores the critical nature of this vulnerability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Deployments of the affected Linux kernel versions are at risk of service interruptions, which could lead to denial of service scenarios. As such, the blast radius potential is significant for organizations relying on these kernels in production environments.
Organizations should prioritize remediation efforts based on the CVSS score of 5.5, indicating that while the vulnerability is not classified as critical, its impact on availability necessitates prompt action.
Given that this vulnerability is not currently in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, organizations can adopt a measured approach to patching, yet should still ensure it is addressed in upcoming maintenance cycles.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects all versions of the Linux kernel from 2.6.15 to before 4.9.337, 4.10 to before 4.14.303, 4.15 to before 4.19.270, 4.20 to before 5.4.229, 5.5 to before 5.10.163, 5.11 to before 5.15.87, 5.16 to before 6.0.18, and 6.1 to before 6.1.4.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are advised to apply the patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers as soon as possible. The patches address the null pointer dereference issue in the start_task function.
Penetration testing can also be employed to validate the effectiveness of the applied patches and identify any lingering vulnerabilities.
In cases where immediate patching is not feasible, organizations should consider implementing network controls and configuration hardening to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring logs for indicators of system interruptions or abnormal behavior can help identify potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also look for behavioral anomalies that may signify misuse of the affected components.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The resolution of this vulnerability is a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in maintaining software integrity. As vulnerabilities in the Linux kernel can have widespread implications, organizations should remain proactive in their security posture.
Implementing a robust vulnerability management program can aid in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they result in significant damage.
For organizations utilizing cloud services, incorporating a cloud penetration testing strategy can help identify misconfigurations that may expose systems to vulnerabilities within the Linux kernel.
The trends in vulnerability management indicate an increasing complexity in attack surfaces, emphasizing the need for continuous security assessments.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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