Use-after-free vulnerability in netfilter

Kernel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

18/03/2022
N/A
No i
Unrated
Not published

GSD-2022-1000921: netfilter: fix use-after-free in __nf_register_net_hook(). Affects Kernel versions >= 2420b79f8c18a75ee2417cace381f4604b9b4365, < 05f7927b25d2635e87267ff6c79db79fb46cf313. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The netfilter package is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides a framework for packet filtering and network address translation. It allows for the manipulation and filtering of network packets at various stages of the networking stack. The vulnerability in question is a use-after-free bug that occurs in the __nf_register_net_hook() function.

Vulnerability Detail

The use-after-free vulnerability in __nf_register_net_hook() can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition. This vulnerability arises when a network hook is registered and then unregistered while still in use, leading to a use-after-free scenario. An attacker can trigger this vulnerability by sending specially crafted network packets, potentially leading to the execution of malicious code or crashing the system.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As a workaround, users can apply network filtering rules to mitigate the risk of exploitation. By carefully configuring network filters, it is possible to limit the exposure to potential attacks. However, this workaround does not address the root cause of the vulnerability and is not a substitute for applying the official fix.

Conclusion

The use-after-free vulnerability in netfilter can have severe security implications, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the system. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to the latest version to ensure the vulnerability is patched. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Netfilter is a component of the Linux Kernel that provides packet filtering and network address translation capabilities.

A use-after-free vulnerability occurs when a program continues to use a memory region after it has been freed, leading to potential memory corruption or arbitrary code execution.

This vulnerability can be exploited by sending specially crafted network packets that trigger the use-after-free condition, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the system.

Yes, this vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v4.14.270 and later. It is recommended to update to the latest version to ensure the fix is applied.

Yes, users can apply network filtering rules to mitigate the risk of exploitation. However, this is not a substitute for applying the official fix.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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