CVE-2022-49279 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the Network File System daemon (NFSD) component on 32-bit systems. The issue arises due to an integer overflow in the calculation of memory allocation size during the operation "len * sizeof(*p)". On 32-bit architectures, this multiplication can overflow, resulting in an incorrect, smaller size being allocated than intended. This can lead to buffer overflows or memory corruption when the NFSD processes network file system requests. Such memory corruption vulnerabilities can be exploited to cause denial of service (system crashes) or potentially enable privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution if an attacker can craft malicious NFS requests. The vulnerability is limited to 32-bit Linux systems, which are less common in modern deployments but still present in legacy or embedded environments. The vulnerability has been resolved in recent Linux kernel updates, but no public exploits are known to exist at this time. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no detailed patch links are provided in the information. The vulnerability was published on February 26, 2025.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-49279 depends largely on the presence of 32-bit Linux systems running NFSD. Many enterprise and cloud environments have migrated to 64-bit architectures, reducing the attack surface. However, legacy systems, embedded devices, or specialized industrial control systems in sectors such as manufacturing, utilities, or telecommunications may still run 32-bit Linux kernels with NFSD enabled. Exploitation could lead to denial of service, disrupting critical file sharing services, or potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems. This could affect data centers, research institutions, and government agencies relying on NFS for network storage. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability should be addressed proactively to prevent future exploitation, especially in environments where 32-bit Linux systems remain operational.

European organizations should first identify any 32-bit Linux systems running NFSD within their infrastructure. This includes embedded devices, legacy servers, and specialized appliances. Once identified, organizations should apply the latest Linux kernel patches that address CVE-2022-49279 as soon as they become available. If patching is not immediately feasible, consider disabling NFSD on affected systems or restricting NFS access via network segmentation and firewall rules to trusted hosts only. Monitoring network traffic for anomalous or malformed NFS requests can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should review and harden their kernel configurations and employ runtime protections such as kernel address space layout randomization (KASLR) and memory protection mechanisms to reduce the impact of memory corruption vulnerabilities. Regular vulnerability scanning and asset inventory updates will help maintain visibility over affected systems.