CVE-2022-49231 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the rtw88 driver module responsible for handling Realtek 802.11ac wireless network adapters. The issue arises from improper memory allocation during the hardware scan (hw_scan) process. The driver previously allocated less memory than required, leading to buffer overruns when data was written beyond the allocated space. This memory overrun triggers access violation faults in the kernel's memory management module. Additionally, the vulnerability includes potential memory leaks due to improper cleanup when the scanning process returns early. The root cause is incorrect size parameters passed during memory allocation and an incomplete deinitialization flow. The fix involves correcting the allocated memory size and ensuring proper deinitialization to prevent leaks. This vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions identified by the commit hash 10d162b2ed395e69720926b4f8d87f1f25ca920f, with no CVSS score assigned yet and no known exploits reported in the wild. Given that the rtw88 driver is widely used in Linux systems supporting Realtek wireless hardware, this vulnerability could impact a broad range of devices running Linux, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems that rely on these wireless adapters.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-49231 could be significant, particularly for those relying on Linux-based systems with Realtek wireless adapters for network connectivity. The memory overrun can lead to kernel crashes or system instability, potentially causing denial of service conditions. Memory leaks may degrade system performance over time, increasing maintenance overhead. While no known exploits exist currently, the vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers with local access or through crafted wireless traffic to cause system crashes or escalate privileges if combined with other vulnerabilities. This could disrupt critical business operations, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing where Linux systems are prevalent. Moreover, organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using Linux laptops or embedded devices with affected wireless hardware may face increased risk of network disruptions or targeted attacks. The absence of authentication or user interaction requirements for exploitation is unclear, but given the nature of kernel memory corruption, even limited local access could be sufficient to trigger the vulnerability, increasing its threat potential.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernels to versions that include the patch for CVE-2022-49231 as soon as it becomes available. In the interim, organizations can mitigate risk by disabling or restricting the use of affected Realtek wireless adapters where feasible, especially on critical systems. Network segmentation and strict access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of vulnerable devices. Monitoring system logs for kernel faults or unusual wireless scanning activity can help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should ensure that their endpoint security solutions are configured to detect anomalous behavior indicative of kernel memory corruption. For embedded or IoT devices running Linux with the rtw88 driver, vendors should be contacted for firmware updates or patches. Finally, maintaining a robust patch management process and conducting regular vulnerability assessments will help identify and remediate such issues promptly.