CVE-2021-22600: net/packet: rx_owner_map depends on pg_vec

:linux_kernel: Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

01/05/2022
Yes i
Moderate
Not published

CVE-2021-22600: In packet_set_ring of af_packet.c, there is a possible memory corruption due to a use after free. Affects :linux_kernel: versions >= :0, < :2022-05-05. Fixed in :2022-05-05. How to fix ↓

Also tracked for

The same CVE-2021-22600 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.

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Background

The net/packet package is a part of the Linux kernel and is responsible for handling network packets at the packet level. It provides functionality for packet socket creation, sending, and receiving packets. The rx_owner_map feature in the af_packet.c file allows mapping of packet reception to specific CPUs. This feature is used by various network applications and services.

Vulnerability Detail

In the packet_set_ring function of af_packet.c, there is a vulnerability that can lead to memory corruption due to a use-after-free issue. This vulnerability can be exploited locally to escalate privileges, requiring system execution privileges. The vulnerability occurs when the rx_owner_map feature depends on the pg_vec feature, leading to a use-after-free scenario. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or perform other malicious activities.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

:2022-05-05

This is the first release that contains the fix.

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

Workaround

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability.

Conclusion

The net/packet vulnerability (CVE-2021-22600) in the Linux kernel's af_packet.c file can lead to local privilege escalation. It is recommended to apply the provided patch or update to a fixed version of the Linux kernel to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

This vulnerability can lead to local privilege escalation, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.

No, user interaction is not required for exploitation. An attacker with local access can exploit this vulnerability.

The severity of this vulnerability is considered moderate.

This vulnerability was published on May 1, 2022.

The fix for this vulnerability was released on May 5, 2022.

Related vulnerabilities

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How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

:2022-05-05

This is the first release that contains the fix.

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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