CVE-2022-49416 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability found in the Linux kernel's mac80211 wireless subsystem, specifically within the channel context (chanctx) management code. The flaw occurs in the ieee80211_vif_use_reserved_context() function, which handles the reassignment of channel contexts for virtual interfaces. When an old channel context is freed in ieee80211_vif_use_reserved_reassign(), the code fails to properly nullify the pointer to the old context, leading to a potential use-after-free condition if the old context is accessed afterward. This improper handling arises when the new context's replace_state is set to IEEE80211_CHANCTX_REPLACE_NONE, meaning no replacement is intended, but the old context is still freed and subsequently accessed. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow a local attacker with low privileges (PR:L) to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service by corrupting kernel memory, as the flaw impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability requires local access and no user interaction, with low attack complexity. The affected Linux kernel versions include multiple commits identified by the same hash, indicating a widespread issue in the mac80211 subsystem. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the CVSS score of 7.8 reflects the significant risk posed by this vulnerability if exploited. The root cause is classified under CWE-416 (Use After Free), a common and dangerous memory corruption issue in kernel code. The vulnerability was published on February 26, 2025, and has been addressed in updated kernel releases, though patch links were not provided in the source data.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a critical risk to systems running vulnerable Linux kernel versions, especially those utilizing wireless networking features managed by mac80211. Given the widespread adoption of Linux in servers, embedded devices, and network infrastructure across Europe, exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, kernel-level code execution, or system crashes, severely impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical services. Organizations relying on Linux-based wireless access points, routers, or IoT devices could face disruptions or compromise of sensitive data. The local attack vector means that attackers would need some level of access to the target system, which could be achieved through compromised user accounts or insider threats. The absence of required user interaction simplifies exploitation once local access is obtained. This vulnerability could also be leveraged as a stepping stone for lateral movement within networks, increasing the risk of broader compromise. The high severity and kernel-level impact necessitate urgent remediation to protect European enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure providers that depend on Linux systems for wireless connectivity and network operations.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to the latest patched versions that address CVE-2022-49416. Since the vulnerability resides in the mac80211 wireless subsystem, systems that do not use wireless networking or have disabled mac80211 may have reduced risk but should still be updated as a best practice. Specific mitigation steps include: 1) Inventory all Linux systems to identify those running vulnerable kernel versions, focusing on devices with wireless capabilities. 2) Apply vendor-provided kernel patches or upgrade to the latest stable kernel releases that include the fix for this vulnerability. 3) For embedded or IoT devices where kernel updates are challenging, consider network segmentation and strict access controls to limit local access to trusted users only. 4) Monitor system logs and kernel messages for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts, such as unexpected crashes or memory corruption signs. 5) Employ host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) capable of detecting anomalous kernel behavior. 6) Educate system administrators and security teams about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce attack surface. 7) Where possible, disable or restrict wireless interfaces on critical servers or devices that do not require wireless connectivity to minimize exposure. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on wireless subsystem usage, local access controls, and kernel patch management tailored to this specific vulnerability.