CVE-2022-29206: TensorFlow - Missing Validation in SparseTensorDenseAdd
Summary
CVE-2022-29206: Missing validation results in undefined behavior in SparseTensorDenseAdd. Affects tensorflow across 3 version ranges.
< 2.6.4
>= 2.7.0, < 2.7.2
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.1
Fixed in 2.6.4, 2.7.2 or 2.8.1, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- tensorflow-cpu · PyPI
- tensorflow-gpu · PyPI
- tensorflow · Bitnami
The same CVE-2022-29206 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
TensorFlow is an open-source machine learning framework developed by Google. It provides a comprehensive ecosystem of tools, libraries, and resources for building and deploying machine learning models. TensorFlow includes various operations and functions for manipulating and processing tensors, which are multi-dimensional arrays. One of these operations is SparseTensorDenseAdd, which combines a sparse tensor with a dense tensor. This operation is used in many machine learning tasks, such as natural language processing and computer vision.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (CVE-2022-29206) in TensorFlow's SparseTensorDenseAdd operation arises from a missing validation of input arguments. When certain input arguments are not properly validated, a reference can be bound to a null pointer during kernel execution, resulting in undefined behavior. This vulnerability can potentially lead to crashes, memory corruption, or other unpredictable outcomes. It has a CVSS score of 5.5, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2.21.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.21.0"
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 2.6.42.6.4pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.6.4" -
>= 2.7.0, < 2.7.22.7.2pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.7.2" -
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.12.8.1pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.8.1"
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Workaround
As a workaround, users can avoid using the SparseTensorDenseAdd operation until they have updated to a patched version of TensorFlow. Alternatively, they can implement their own validation logic before calling the SparseTensorDenseAdd operation to ensure that the input arguments are properly validated.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in TensorFlow's SparseTensorDenseAdd operation (CVE-2022-29206) can have serious consequences if not addressed. It is recommended to update to one of the patched versions of TensorFlow to mitigate the risk. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for tensorflow →
FAQ
TensorFlow is an open-source machine learning framework developed by Google. It provides tools and resources for building and deploying machine learning models.
SparseTensorDenseAdd is a TensorFlow operation that combines a sparse tensor with a dense tensor.
The vulnerability can lead to crashes, memory corruption, or other unpredictable outcomes when certain input arguments are not properly validated.
To fix the vulnerability, update your TensorFlow installation to one of the patched versions: TensorFlow 2.6.4, TensorFlow 2.7.2, TensorFlow 2.8.1, or TensorFlow 2.9.0 (upcoming release).
As a workaround, you can avoid using the SparseTensorDenseAdd operation until you have updated to a patched version of TensorFlow.
References
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