CVE-2022-49249 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically within the ASoC (ALSA System on Chip) codec driver for the wc938x codec. The issue arises from improper handling of enum types when accessed as integers, leading to an out-of-bounds array access. On platforms such as aarch64, where the size of a long integer is 8 bytes but the enum size is 4 bytes, this mismatch causes the kernel code to incorrectly index arrays, potentially reading or writing beyond their allocated bounds. This type of vulnerability can lead to undefined behavior including memory corruption, kernel crashes, or potentially privilege escalation if exploited. The fix implemented replaces the use of integer indexing with direct use of enumerated items, ensuring proper bounds checking and type safety. The vulnerability affects specific Linux kernel versions identified by commit hashes, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. The vulnerability was published on February 26, 2025, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability is technical and low-level, affecting kernel code that interacts with audio codec hardware on certain architectures, notably aarch64.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-49249 depends largely on their use of Linux systems running affected kernel versions on aarch64 or similar architectures with the wc938x codec driver enabled. Organizations using Linux servers, embedded devices, or IoT systems with this configuration could face risks of system instability or kernel crashes due to out-of-bounds memory access. While no known exploits exist, the vulnerability could theoretically be leveraged by a local attacker or malicious code to cause denial of service or escalate privileges, compromising system integrity and availability. Critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and industrial control systems in Europe that rely on Linux-based embedded platforms could be particularly sensitive. However, the attack surface is somewhat limited by the requirement of specific hardware codec drivers and kernel versions. Confidentiality impact is likely low unless combined with other vulnerabilities. Overall, the threat poses a moderate risk to system stability and security for affected Linux deployments in Europe.

European organizations should promptly identify Linux systems running affected kernel versions with the wc938x codec driver enabled, especially on aarch64 architectures. Applying the official Linux kernel patches or upgrading to a kernel version where this vulnerability is fixed is the primary mitigation. For embedded or IoT devices where kernel upgrades are challenging, vendors should be contacted for firmware updates incorporating the fix. System administrators should audit and restrict access to vulnerable systems to minimize risk of local exploitation. Implementing kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and enabling security modules like SELinux or AppArmor can reduce exploitation likelihood. Monitoring system logs for kernel crashes or unusual behavior related to audio codec drivers can help detect attempts to trigger the vulnerability. Finally, organizations should maintain an inventory of hardware and software configurations to quickly assess exposure to such low-level kernel vulnerabilities.