CVE-2022-50889 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 12/30/2025
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
dm integrity: Fix UAF in dm_integrity_dtr()
Dm_integrity also has the same UAF problem when dm_resume() and dm_destroy() are concurrent.
Therefore, cancelling timer again in dm_integrity_dtr().
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/26/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-50889 represents a use-after-free condition within the Linux kernel's device mapper integrity subsystem. This flaw exists in the dm_integrity_dtr() function which handles the destruction of device mapper integrity contexts. The issue occurs when concurrent operations attempt to manipulate the same kernel data structures, specifically when dm_resume() and dm_destroy() functions execute simultaneously. The device mapper integrity subsystem provides cryptographic integrity protection for block devices and relies on proper synchronization mechanisms to prevent race conditions during device lifecycle operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate synchronization between concurrent kernel threads operating on the same device mapper integrity context. When one thread attempts to resume a device while another simultaneously destroys it, the underlying memory structures can be freed while still being referenced by ongoing operations. This creates a scenario where freed memory locations are accessed, leading to unpredictable behavior including potential privilege escalation or system crashes. The vulnerability manifests as a classic use-after-free condition that falls under CWE-416, specifically addressing the improper release of memory resources. The device mapper integrity subsystem operates at a critical kernel level where such flaws can have severe implications for system stability and security.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability to potential security compromise. Attackers who can trigger the concurrent execution of dm_resume() and dm_destroy() operations may exploit this race condition to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This represents a significant threat to systems utilizing device mapper integrity for data protection, particularly in enterprise environments where such subsystems are commonly deployed for storage security. The vulnerability affects the integrity protection mechanisms that Linux kernel developers rely upon for secure data handling, potentially allowing attackers to bypass cryptographic safeguards. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.003 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell) and T1566 (Phishing) as attackers could leverage the system instability to execute malicious code or gain unauthorized access to protected storage volumes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-50889 require immediate kernel updates from vendors who have patched this specific race condition. System administrators should prioritize applying security patches that implement proper locking mechanisms to prevent concurrent access to device mapper integrity contexts during destruction operations. The fix typically involves adding additional synchronization primitives that ensure dm_integrity_dtr() properly cancels any active timers before proceeding with memory deallocation. Organizations should also implement monitoring for concurrent device mapper operations and consider implementing kernel lockdown modes or other security configurations that limit the potential attack surface. Additionally, regular security audits of storage subsystems and proper access controls for device mapper operations can help reduce the likelihood of exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper kernel synchronization mechanisms and demonstrates how seemingly minor race conditions can have major security implications in low-level system components.