Critical NULL Pointer Dereference Vulnerability in Linux Kernel - drm/panel: ili9341
Summary
CVE-2022-49071: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: drm/panel: ili9341: fix optional regulator handling If the optional regulator lookup fails, reset the pointer to NULL. Affects linux versions < 5.17.3-1. Fixed in 5.17.3-1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for hardware management and system resources. It is widely used in various distributions, including Debian. The kernel supports a range of functionalities, including device drivers, file systems, and network protocols. This specific vulnerability affects the drm/panel: ili9341 driver, which is responsible for managing display panels, highlighting the importance of robust error handling in device drivers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from improper handling of optional regulator lookups in the drm/panel: ili9341 driver. If the lookup fails, the pointer is not reset to NULL, leading to potential NULL pointer dereference in subsequent function calls, such as mipi_dbi_poweron_reset_conditional(). This can result in system instability, crashes, or exploitation by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code, thereby compromising system integrity.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.17.3-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linuxTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. It is recommended to apply the patch as soon as it is available to mitigate the risk.
Conclusion
The CVE-2022-49071 vulnerability in the Linux kernel's drm/panel: ili9341 driver poses significant risks due to improper handling of optional regulator lookups. It is essential to update to the patched version 5.17.3-1 to ensure system stability and security. Regular monitoring for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert can help maintain the integrity of your software.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
CVE-2022-49071 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's drm/panel: ili9341 driver that can lead to a NULL pointer dereference.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to system crashes, instability, or unauthorized access, compromising the integrity of the system.
If you are using Debian 12 or 13 with a kernel version prior to 5.17.3-1, your system is vulnerable to this issue.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Check your application against this vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is crucial to prioritize updating your kernel to the patched version to mitigate risks.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
