CVE-2022-49508 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically related to the handling of Human Interface Device (HID) drivers for Elan input devices. The issue arises from improper management of input device resources within the elan_input_configured function. The Linux kernel uses devm_input_allocate_device() to allocate input devices as managed resources, which means the kernel automatically handles their cleanup when the device is unbound from its driver. However, the vulnerable code explicitly calls input_free_device() on these managed resources, leading to a potential double free condition. A double free occurs when the same memory is freed more than once, which can corrupt the kernel memory allocator's internal structures. This memory corruption can cause system instability, crashes (kernel panic), or potentially be leveraged by an attacker to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. The vulnerability is rooted in a logic error where the code does not adhere to the documented behavior of devm_input_allocate_device(), which guarantees automatic resource cleanup. The fix involves removing the explicit call to input_free_device() to prevent the double free scenario. This vulnerability affects Linux kernel versions containing the specified commit hash 9a6a4193d65b853020ef0e66cecdf9e64a863883 and possibly others in the same development timeframe. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability requires local code execution or local access to the system to trigger the flaw, as it involves device driver resource management. No user interaction is necessary once the attacker has local access, but remote exploitation is unlikely without prior system compromise. The impact primarily concerns system stability and potential privilege escalation if exploited successfully.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-49508 depends on their use of Linux-based systems, particularly those utilizing Elan HID devices such as touchpads or other input peripherals common in laptops and embedded systems. Organizations relying on Linux servers, desktops, or embedded devices with vulnerable kernel versions could face system crashes or denial of service due to kernel panics triggered by the double free vulnerability. More critically, if an attacker with local access exploits this vulnerability, they could potentially escalate privileges to kernel level, compromising system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, or further lateral movement within corporate networks. Given the widespread use of Linux in enterprise environments across Europe, including in critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and government systems, the vulnerability poses a moderate risk. However, the requirement for local access limits the attack surface primarily to insider threats, compromised user accounts, or attackers who have already breached perimeter defenses. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the need for proactive mitigation.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernel to the fixed versions that address CVE-2022-49508 as soon as patches become available from their Linux distribution vendors. Since the vulnerability is related to kernel-level device driver code, applying official kernel updates is the most effective mitigation. Organizations should also audit and restrict local access to systems, ensuring that only authorized personnel have the ability to execute code or load device drivers. Implementing strict access controls, endpoint protection, and monitoring for unusual kernel-level activity can help detect potential exploitation attempts. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, disabling or restricting the use of Elan HID devices temporarily may reduce exposure. Additionally, organizations should maintain robust incident response plans to quickly address any signs of kernel exploitation or system instability. Regular vulnerability scanning and compliance checks should include verification of kernel patch levels to ensure timely remediation.