Refcount Leak in Realtek RTL IRQ Chip - Linux Kernel Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2022-49714: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: irqchip/realtek-rtl: Fix refcount leak in map_interrupts of_find_node_by_phandle() returns a node pointer with refcount incremented, we should use of_no... Affects linux versions < 5.18.14-1. Fixed in 5.18.14-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, responsible for managing hardware resources and providing essential services to software applications. It is widely used in various distributions, including Debian. The kernel's IRQ (Interrupt Request) handling is crucial for efficient communication between hardware and software. The Realtek RTL IRQ chip is one such component that interfaces with the kernel to manage interrupts. This vulnerability affects the handling of reference counts in the IRQ chip, potentially leading to resource leaks and system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-49714 arises from a refcount leak in the Realtek RTL IRQ chip implementation within the Linux kernel. Specifically, the function of_find_node_by_phandle() increments the reference count of a node pointer, but there is a failure to decrement this count in the error path. This oversight can lead to memory leaks, where resources are not properly released, potentially causing system performance degradation or crashes over time. The issue is particularly critical in environments where resource management is paramount.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.18.14-1
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 available for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to apply the patch as soon as it becomes available.
Conclusion
CVE-2022-49714 is a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel affecting the Realtek RTL IRQ chip, leading to potential memory leaks and system instability. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the patched version to mitigate risks. Monitoring tools like Vulert can assist in identifying vulnerabilities in your applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2022-49714 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel related to a refcount leak in the Realtek RTL IRQ chip, which can lead to resource leaks.
This vulnerability can cause memory leaks, leading to performance issues or system crashes, especially in resource-intensive environments.
Yes, a patch is available in version 5.18.14-1 of the Linux kernel. Users should update to this version or later.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is advisable to monitor your system closely for any unusual behavior until you can apply the patch.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading a manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check for vulnerabilities without needing to access the code.
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