CVE-2022-48837 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 07/16/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
usb: gadget: rndis: prevent integer overflow in rndis_set_response()
If "BufOffset" is very large the "BufOffset + 8" operation can have an integer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-48837 resides within the Linux kernel's USB gadget framework, specifically in the RNDIS (Remote Network Driver Interface Specification) implementation. This flaw manifests in the rndis_set_response() function where improper handling of the BufOffset parameter creates a condition susceptible to integer overflow attacks. The RNDIS protocol is commonly used for USB network adapters and device communication, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for systems that utilize USB gadget functionality for network operations.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when the BufOffset parameter exceeds the maximum representable value for the data type used in the calculation. When the system attempts to compute BufOffset + 8, the arithmetic operation surpasses the maximum limit of the integer type, resulting in an overflow that can produce a negative or unexpectedly small value. This overflow condition creates a scenario where memory access calculations become corrupted, potentially leading to buffer overflows or other memory corruption issues. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking within the USB gadget driver's response handling mechanism.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios. An attacker with access to the USB gadget interface could potentially exploit this integer overflow to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code within kernel space. This represents a critical security risk as it could enable privilege escalation from user-space to kernel-level execution, allowing attackers to gain full system control. Systems utilizing USB gadget functionality for network operations, particularly embedded devices and IoT platforms, face heightened risk exposure. The vulnerability affects any Linux kernel version containing the affected RNDIS implementation and could be exploited through malicious USB device connections or crafted network traffic.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-48837 should prioritize immediate kernel updates from vendors to address the integer overflow condition in the rndis_set_response() function. System administrators should implement USB device access controls and restrict USB gadget functionality to trusted users and applications only. Additional protective measures include deploying kernel lockdown features and implementing USB device whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized device connections. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, and represents a potential pathway for ATT&CK technique T1059.001, Command and Scripting Interpreter, through kernel-level code execution. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring for suspicious USB gadget behavior and memory access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.