CVE-2022-49024 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically related to the m_can PCI driver, which handles the CAN (Controller Area Network) interface over PCI. The issue arises from missing calls to the function m_can_class_free_dev() within the probe and remove methods of the m_can_pci driver. This function is responsible for freeing resources allocated by m_can_class_allocate_dev(). Without this call, resources allocated during device initialization are not properly released during device removal or error handling, leading to a memory leak. Although the vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or privilege escalation, the memory leak can degrade system stability and performance over time, especially in environments where devices are frequently added or removed or where error conditions occur repeatedly. The vulnerability was reserved in August 2024 and published in October 2024, with no known exploits in the wild at the time of reporting. The affected versions are identified by specific Linux kernel commit hashes, indicating that this is a recent and targeted fix. The vulnerability is subtle and primarily impacts system reliability rather than confidentiality or integrity, but it is important for embedded systems or industrial environments relying on CAN interfaces, where stability is critical.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-49024 depends largely on their use of Linux systems with CAN PCI devices, which are common in automotive, industrial automation, and embedded systems sectors. Organizations involved in manufacturing, automotive production, and critical infrastructure may use Linux-based systems with CAN interfaces for device communication and control. A memory leak in such environments can lead to degraded system performance, increased downtime, and potentially unexpected system resets or failures if resources are exhausted. This can disrupt production lines, impact safety-critical systems, and increase maintenance costs. While the vulnerability does not directly expose sensitive data or allow remote code execution, the indirect effects on availability and operational continuity can be significant. European organizations with embedded Linux deployments in automotive or industrial control systems should prioritize patching to maintain system reliability and avoid operational disruptions.

To mitigate CVE-2022-49024, organizations should: 1) Apply the latest Linux kernel updates that include the patch fixing the missing m_can_class_free_dev() calls in the m_can_pci driver. 2) Audit systems using CAN PCI devices to identify those running vulnerable kernel versions, especially in embedded or industrial environments. 3) Implement monitoring for memory usage and system stability on affected devices to detect potential memory leaks early. 4) For systems where immediate patching is not feasible, consider controlled device management practices to minimize frequent device probing/removal cycles that could exacerbate the leak. 5) Engage with hardware and software vendors to ensure that embedded Linux distributions used in critical systems incorporate this fix promptly. 6) Incorporate this vulnerability into regular vulnerability management and patching cycles, especially for industrial control and automotive Linux deployments.