CVE-2022-49854 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 05/01/2025
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
mctp: Fix an error handling path in mctp_init()
If mctp_neigh_init() return error, the routes resources should be released in the error handling path. Otherwise some resources leak.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-49854 resides within the Linux kernel's Management Component Transport Protocol MCTP implementation, specifically affecting the mctp_init() function. This issue represents a classic resource management flaw that can lead to system instability and potential denial of service conditions. The MCTP protocol is designed to provide a standardized transport mechanism for management and control messages in data center environments, making it a critical component for system reliability and security.
The technical flaw manifests in the error handling path of the mctp_init() function where the system fails to properly release allocated route resources when mctp_neigh_init() returns an error condition. This represents a memory leak vulnerability classified under CWE-404, which specifically addresses improper resource release or cleanup. The function's error handling logic does not account for the scenario where neighbor initialization fails, leaving allocated routing resources in an inconsistent state. When mctp_neigh_init() encounters an error during neighbor table initialization, the system should ensure that all previously allocated route resources are properly freed to prevent memory consumption from growing uncontrollably.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory consumption issues, as it can lead to progressive resource exhaustion across the system. In environments where MCTP is actively utilized for management communications, particularly in data center and server environments, this resource leak can accumulate over time and eventually result in system performance degradation or complete service unavailability. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernel versions where the specific fix has not been applied, creating a persistent risk for organizations relying on MCTP for system management functions. From an attacker perspective, this represents a potential denial of service vector that could be exploited to consume system resources and disrupt normal operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-49854 focus primarily on applying the appropriate kernel security patches that address the resource leak in the error handling path. System administrators should prioritize updating their Linux kernel versions to include the fix that ensures proper cleanup of route resources when mctp_neigh_init() fails. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which involves resource exhaustion attacks targeting system resources. Organizations should implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual memory consumption patterns that might indicate resource leak exploitation. Additionally, regular security assessments of kernel components and proper patch management procedures should be maintained to prevent similar issues from arising in other kernel subsystems. The fix demonstrates proper defensive programming practices that align with secure coding guidelines for preventing resource leaks in kernel space operations.