Null Pointer Dereference Vulnerability in Linux Kernel - CVE-2022-49423
Summary
CVE-2022-49423: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: rtla: Avoid record NULL pointer dereference Fix the following null/deref_null.cocci errors: ./tools/tracing/rtla/src/osnoise_hist.c:870:31-36: ERROR: re... Affects linux versions < 5.18.5-1. Fixed in 5.18.5-1. 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
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for all other parts of the system. It manages hardware resources, system calls, and process management. The kernel is crucial for system stability and security. This specific vulnerability affects the rtla (Real-Time Latency Analyzer) tool within the kernel, which is used for analyzing and measuring system latencies.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2022-49423 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's rtla tool that arises from a null pointer dereference. This occurs when the code attempts to access a memory location through a pointer that has not been initialized, leading to potential crashes or undefined behavior. The vulnerability was identified in several source files where the 'record' pointer was found to be null before being dereferenced, which could result in system instability or crashes during operation.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.18.5-1
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
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the affected rtla tools until the kernel is updated. This will prevent any potential crashes or instability caused by the null pointer dereference.
Conclusion
CVE-2022-49423 is a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel that can lead to null pointer dereference issues within the rtla tool. Users are strongly encouraged to update their systems to the patched version to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability. For those unable to update immediately, avoiding the use of the affected tools is recommended.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
CVE-2022-49423 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel that allows for a null pointer dereference in the rtla tool, potentially leading to system crashes.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The primary risk is system instability or crashes when the affected rtla tools are used, which can disrupt operations and lead to data loss.
Yes, the vulnerability has been patched in version 5.18.5-1 of the Linux kernel for both Debian 12 and Debian 13.
If you cannot update your kernel right away, it is advisable to avoid using the affected rtla tools until you can apply the patch.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
