CVE-2022-1652 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 06/02/2022
Linux Kernel could allow a local attacker to execute arbitrary code on the system, caused by a concurrency use-after-free flaw in the bad_flp_intr function. By executing a specially-crafted program, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service condition on the system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1652 represents a critical concurrency issue within the Linux kernel that exposes systems to local privilege escalation attacks. This flaw resides in the bad_flp_intr function, which handles floppy disk interrupt processing, making it particularly concerning given the widespread use of Linux systems across various environments. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management during concurrent access scenarios where multiple execution paths attempt to manipulate the same memory resources simultaneously.
The technical implementation of this flaw manifests as a use-after-free condition that occurs when the kernel's floppy disk subsystem fails to properly synchronize access to memory structures during interrupt handling. When concurrent threads or processes access the bad_flp_intr function simultaneously, the kernel may free memory that is subsequently accessed by another execution path, creating a scenario where arbitrary code execution becomes possible. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free errors in software implementations. The concurrency aspect of this flaw makes it particularly challenging to detect and exploit, as it requires precise timing and specific system conditions to trigger the memory corruption.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to system integrity and availability. Local attackers who can execute code on a target system gain the ability to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the entire system. The attack vector requires only local execution capability, making it accessible to users with minimal system access rights. The potential for denial of service conditions adds another layer of risk, as attackers could destabilize systems without necessarily gaining elevated privileges. According to ATT&CK framework reference T1068, this vulnerability could be leveraged for privilege escalation, while T1499 covers potential denial of service scenarios that may result from the memory corruption.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-1652 should prioritize immediate kernel updates from trusted sources, as vendors have released patches addressing the specific concurrency issues in the bad_flp_intr function. System administrators should implement proper access controls to minimize local execution capabilities, particularly on systems where floppy disk support is not required. The vulnerability's nature suggests that disabling floppy disk functionality entirely could serve as a temporary workaround until comprehensive patches are deployed. Monitoring for unusual system behavior or memory access patterns may help detect exploitation attempts, though the timing-sensitive nature of the vulnerability makes detection challenging. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel hardening measures such as stack canaries and memory protection mechanisms to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process must account for the specific kernel versions affected and ensure that patches are thoroughly tested in production environments before deployment to prevent unintended system disruptions.