CVE-2022-49005 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel's ALSA System on Chip (ASoC) audio subsystem, specifically related to the handling of _sx controls in the snd_soc_put_volsw_sx() function. The vulnerability arises from an incorrect bounds check on the 'max' field for _sx controls. Unlike typical controls where 'max' represents the maximum value, for _sx controls, 'max' actually represents the number of discrete steps. The existing check incorrectly treats 'max' as a maximum value, which can lead to improper validation of input values. This flaw could potentially allow an attacker to supply out-of-bounds values to the volume switch controls, potentially causing undefined behavior in the kernel. While the exact impact depends on how the kernel handles these out-of-bounds inputs, it could lead to memory corruption or kernel crashes, which in turn could be leveraged for privilege escalation or denial of service. The vulnerability affects multiple Linux kernel versions as indicated by the commit hashes listed, and it has been officially published and resolved in recent kernel updates. There are no known exploits in the wild at this time, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions with ASoC audio drivers that utilize _sx controls. Given the widespread use of Linux in servers, embedded devices, and desktops across Europe, especially in sectors like telecommunications, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure, exploitation could lead to system instability or denial of service. In worst-case scenarios, attackers might leverage this flaw to escalate privileges on affected systems, compromising confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data. Organizations relying on Linux-based IoT devices or embedded systems with audio components could be particularly vulnerable. Although no active exploits are known, the potential for kernel-level impact means that even a local attacker or a malicious user with limited access could attempt to exploit this flaw to gain higher privileges or disrupt services.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernels to the patched versions that address CVE-2022-49005. Since the vulnerability is in the kernel's audio subsystem, organizations should audit their systems to identify those running vulnerable kernel versions with ASoC _sx controls enabled. For embedded or IoT devices where kernel updates may be less frequent, vendors should be contacted to provide patches or firmware updates. Additionally, organizations should implement strict access controls to limit unprivileged users from interacting with audio device controls, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Monitoring kernel logs for unusual behavior related to audio controls and employing kernel integrity monitoring tools can help detect exploitation attempts. Finally, incorporating this vulnerability into vulnerability management and patching workflows will ensure timely remediation.