CVE-2022-49852 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically affecting the RISC-V architecture implementation. The issue arises from improper handling of the thread_struct data structure during process creation (fork) and kernel thread (kthread) initialization. Specifically, the s[12] array within thread_struct may contain residual kernel memory content that is not cleared before being exposed to userspace. This results in a kernel information leakage vulnerability, where sensitive kernel memory contents could be inadvertently disclosed to unprivileged userspace processes. The vulnerability stems from the failure to clear the s[12] array during fork and kthread creation, allowing random kernel memory data to be leaked. The fix involves explicitly zeroing out the s[12] array in thread_struct during these operations to prevent leakage. Although this vulnerability does not appear to have known exploits in the wild, it represents a confidentiality breach risk as kernel memory contents may contain sensitive information such as kernel pointers, cryptographic keys, or other critical data. The vulnerability is limited to Linux kernels running on RISC-V architectures and affects specific kernel versions identified by the commit hashes provided. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no patch links are provided in the data, but the issue has been published and reserved as of May 1, 2025.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2022-49852 is the potential compromise of kernel memory confidentiality on Linux systems running on RISC-V hardware. While RISC-V is an emerging architecture and currently less widespread than x86 or ARM in production environments, its adoption is growing in embedded systems, IoT devices, and specialized computing platforms. Organizations using RISC-V based Linux systems could face risks of sensitive kernel data leakage, which may aid attackers in further exploitation or privilege escalation. This could be particularly concerning for sectors handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, or critical infrastructure. However, since the vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or privilege escalation, the immediate risk is limited to information disclosure. The absence of known exploits reduces the urgency but does not eliminate the risk. European organizations deploying RISC-V Linux systems should be aware of this vulnerability to maintain confidentiality and prevent potential reconnaissance by attackers. The impact is less significant for organizations not using RISC-V Linux kernels or those that have already applied the fix.

To mitigate CVE-2022-49852, European organizations should: 1) Identify all Linux systems running on RISC-V architectures within their environment. 2) Verify the kernel versions and commit hashes to determine if they are affected by this vulnerability. 3) Apply the official Linux kernel patches that clear the s[12] array in thread_struct during fork and kthread creation as soon as they become available. 4) If patches are not yet available, consider temporary mitigations such as restricting unprivileged userspace access to vulnerable systems or isolating RISC-V Linux hosts from sensitive networks. 5) Monitor vendor advisories and security bulletins for updates or backported patches in vendor-specific kernel versions. 6) Conduct regular kernel memory and system integrity audits to detect any anomalous information leakage attempts. 7) Educate system administrators about the risks of kernel information leakage and the importance of timely patching, especially on emerging architectures like RISC-V. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on architecture-specific identification, patch management, and operational controls tailored to this vulnerability.