CVE-2022-35993: TensorFlow Denial of Service Vulnerability in SetSize Function
Summary
CVE-2022-35993: TensorFlow vulnerable to CHECK fail in SetSize. Affects tensorflow across 3 version ranges.
< 2.7.2
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.1
>= 2.9.0, < 2.9.1
Fixed in 2.7.2, 2.8.1 or 2.9.1, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- tensorflow-cpu · PyPI
- tensorflow-gpu · PyPI
- tensorflow · Bitnami
The same CVE-2022-35993 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 library developed by Google. It is widely used for building and training machine learning models. TensorFlow provides a flexible architecture that allows users to deploy computation across various platforms, including CPUs, GPUs, and TPUs. The library is designed to facilitate the development of deep learning applications, but it is not without its vulnerabilities. One such vulnerability is found in the SetSize function, which can lead to denial of service attacks if not properly handled.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises when the SetSize function receives an input set_shape that is not a 1D tensor. This situation triggers a CHECK failure, which can be exploited to cause a denial of service. An attacker can craft inputs that lead to this failure, effectively crashing the application or making it unresponsive. The technical details indicate that the vulnerability is present in TensorFlow versions prior to 2.7.2, 2.8.1, and 2.9.1, making it critical for users of these versions to take action.
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.
-
< 2.7.22.7.2pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.7.2" -
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.12.8.1pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.8.1" -
>= 2.9.0, < 2.9.12.9.1pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.9.1"
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds provided for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to update to the patched versions mentioned above. However, if immediate updating is not possible, avoid using the SetSize function with non-1D tensor inputs to mitigate the risk temporarily.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2022-35993 is a significant vulnerability in TensorFlow that can lead to denial of service attacks. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched versions to ensure their applications remain secure. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2022-35993 is a vulnerability in TensorFlow that can lead to denial of service when the SetSize function is used with incorrect input shapes.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
TensorFlow versions prior to 2.7.2, 2.8.1, and 2.9.1 are affected by this vulnerability.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 5.9, indicating a moderate severity level.
If you cannot update immediately, avoid using the SetSize function with non-1D tensor inputs to reduce the risk of exploitation.
References
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