CVE-2022-44033 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 10/31/2022
An issue was discovered in the Linux kernel through 6.0.6. drivers/char/pcmcia/cm4040_cs.c has a race condition and resultant use-after-free if a physically proximate attacker removes a PCMCIA device while calling open(), aka a race condition between cm4040_open() and reader_detach().
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-44033 represents a critical race condition flaw within the Linux kernel version 6.0.6 and earlier, specifically affecting the PCMCIA character device driver. This issue manifests in the drivers/char/pcmcia/cm4040_cs.c file where concurrent operations can lead to a use-after-free condition. The vulnerability occurs when a physically proximate attacker removes a PCMCIA device while the system is in the process of calling the open() function, creating a temporal window where system resources become invalid while still being referenced. The race condition specifically involves the interaction between the cm4040_open() function and the reader_detach() function, where the device removal process can interrupt the device opening sequence.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate synchronization mechanisms within the PCMCIA driver subsystem. When a PCMCIA device is inserted and the system attempts to open the device file, the kernel must manage the device state transitions properly. However, the absence of proper locking mechanisms means that if a device is removed during the open() call execution, the system can proceed with operations on a freed memory structure. This use-after-free condition creates a potential exploitation vector where malicious actors can manipulate the timing of device removal to trigger memory corruption, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system instability.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-44033 extends beyond simple system crashes, as it can be exploited by physically proximate attackers who have the capability to manipulate hardware components. This attack vector is particularly concerning in environments where physical security is not adequately enforced, such as shared computing environments or mobile devices where users can easily remove and reinsert PCMCIA cards. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernel versions up to and including 6.0.6, making it a widespread concern across numerous production environments that have not yet been patched. The race condition can result in denial of service conditions, data corruption, or potentially more severe privilege escalation scenarios depending on the specific system configuration and attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate kernel updates to versions that contain the patched implementation of the PCMCIA driver. System administrators should prioritize applying the latest security patches from their respective Linux distributions, as the fix typically involves implementing proper locking mechanisms and ensuring that device state transitions are properly synchronized. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing physical security controls to prevent unauthorized device removal, particularly in sensitive environments. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-362, which describes race conditions, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities for privilege escalation. Regular security audits should include verification that all PCMCIA device drivers are properly updated and that no legacy systems are running vulnerable kernel versions.