CVE-2022-49405 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel, specifically within the staging driver for the Realtek r8188eu wireless chipset. The issue arises in the function rtw_wx_set_scan(), which handles wireless scanning operations. The vulnerability is due to insufficient bounds checking on the SSID buffer, specifically the ->Ssid[] array. While the existing code includes a check to prevent read overflow, it lacks a proper check to prevent writing beyond the end of the SSID array, leading to a potential buffer overflow condition. This buffer overflow could allow an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory, potentially causing memory corruption, crashes (denial of service), or even arbitrary code execution within kernel space if exploited successfully. The vulnerability affects versions of the Linux kernel containing the vulnerable r8188eu driver code prior to the patch. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability was published on February 26, 2025, and the fix involves adding the missing bounds check to prevent buffer overflow during SSID handling in wireless scanning. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for systems using the Realtek r8188eu wireless chipset with the affected Linux kernel versions, which are common in embedded devices, IoT devices, and some desktop or laptop systems running Linux. Because the flaw exists in kernel code, exploitation could lead to high-privilege escalation or system instability.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-49405 could be significant depending on their use of Linux systems with the affected Realtek r8188eu wireless chipset. Many enterprises, public sector entities, and critical infrastructure providers in Europe rely on Linux-based systems for servers, networking equipment, and embedded devices. Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code at the kernel level, leading to full system compromise, data breaches, or disruption of services. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and government agencies where embedded Linux devices are prevalent. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks or lateral movement within networks if attackers gain initial access. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the presence of a kernel-level buffer overflow in a wireless driver represents a high-risk attack vector, especially in environments with wireless connectivity. The potential for denial of service or privilege escalation could disrupt business operations and compromise sensitive data, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

To mitigate CVE-2022-49405, European organizations should: 1) Immediately apply the official Linux kernel patches that address this vulnerability by adding the necessary bounds check in the rtw_wx_set_scan() function. 2) Identify and inventory all systems using the Realtek r8188eu wireless chipset and verify their kernel versions to assess exposure. 3) For embedded or IoT devices where kernel patching is not straightforward, consider firmware updates or vendor-provided patches that include the fix. 4) Implement network segmentation and strict access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable devices to untrusted networks. 5) Monitor system logs and wireless driver behavior for anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6) Employ intrusion detection systems capable of detecting kernel-level exploits or unusual wireless scanning activity. 7) Where possible, disable or restrict wireless interfaces on critical systems that do not require wireless connectivity to reduce attack surface. 8) Maintain up-to-date asset management and vulnerability scanning to quickly identify and remediate affected systems. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific affected driver, device inventory, and operational controls tailored to wireless kernel vulnerabilities.