CVE-2022-49633 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 02/26/2025
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
icmp: Fix data-races around sysctl_icmp_echo_enable_probe.
While reading sysctl_icmp_echo_enable_probe, it can be changed concurrently. Thus, we need to add READ_ONCE() to its readers.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/20/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2022-49633 represents a critical data race condition within the Linux kernel's ICMP implementation that specifically affects the sysctl_icmp_echo_enable_probe parameter. This issue occurs in the kernel's networking subsystem where concurrent access to shared memory locations creates potential for inconsistent data retrieval and system instability. The problem manifests when multiple threads or processes attempt to read and modify the icmp echo enable probe setting simultaneously, leading to unpredictable behavior in network packet handling and response mechanisms.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate synchronization mechanisms around the sysctl_icmp_echo_enable_probe variable, which controls whether ICMP echo requests are processed by the kernel. Without proper read operations protection, threads accessing this variable concurrently may retrieve corrupted or partially updated values, creating a race condition that violates fundamental concurrency principles. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-362, which specifically addresses concurrent execution using locks and other synchronization mechanisms, and represents a classic example of a data race condition that can lead to system crashes or security implications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability to potentially compromise network security and reliability. When ICMP echo enable probe settings are modified concurrently, the kernel may exhibit inconsistent behavior in handling ping requests and other ICMP-based network operations. This could result in denial of service conditions where legitimate network traffic is improperly handled, or more concerning scenarios where malicious actors might exploit the race condition to bypass security controls or manipulate network responses. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernel versions where the ICMP subsystem handles concurrent access to these configuration parameters.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-49633 require immediate kernel updates to address the underlying race condition through proper READ_ONCE() implementation in all readers of the sysctl_icmp_echo_enable_probe variable. System administrators should prioritize applying the relevant kernel patches that implement proper memory barrier operations to ensure atomic access to the shared parameter. Additionally, monitoring network traffic patterns for unusual ICMP behavior and implementing proper system hardening measures can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The fix aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol, ensuring proper synchronization mechanisms prevent data corruption in concurrent environments. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential exploitation vectors while applying the necessary kernel updates to fully remediate this vulnerability.