In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
perf: Fix perf_pending_task() UaF
Per syzbot it is possible for perf_pending_task() to run after the
event is free()'d. There are two related but distinct cases:
- the task_work was already queued before destroying the event;
- destroying the event itself queues the task_work.
The first cannot be solved using task_work_cancel() since
perf_release() itself might be called from a task_work (____fput),
which means the current->task_works list is already empty and
task_work_cancel() won't be able to find the perf_pending_task()
entry.
The simplest alternative is extending the perf_event lifetime to cover
the task_work.
The second is just silly, queueing a task_work while you know the
event is going away makes no sense and is easily avoided by
re-arranging how the event is marked STATE_DEAD and ensuring it goes
through STATE_OFF on the way down.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
This is a Linux kernel memory-safety bug in the perf subsystem. A delayed perf task can run after the related event object has been freed, creating a use-after-free condition. The source bundle names stable kernel fixes but does not provide CVSS, CWE, or complete affected version ranges.
Executive priority
Handle through normal kernel patch governance unless vendor advisories raise severity. The missing CVSS and exploitation evidence reduce urgency, but kernel use-after-free bugs still warrant timely remediation on shared or multi-user systems.
Technical view
The flaw is in perf_pending_task() and perf_event lifetime handling. syzbot found task_work could remain queued, or be queued during event teardown, after the perf_event is freed. The kernel fixes extend event lifetime around task_work and avoid queuing task_work while marking the event dead.
Likely exposure
Exposure is limited to Linux kernels containing the affected perf_event code. The bundle does not provide complete vulnerable version ranges. Systems should be assessed by kernel package lineage, distribution advisories, and whether included kernels contain the referenced stable fixes.
Exploitation context
The bundle cites syzbot discovery and kernel stable fixes. It does not cite active exploitation, public exploit use, or CISA KEV listing. Treat exploitation status as not evidenced by the provided sources.
Researcher notes
The key uncertainty is affected-range precision. The bundle lists Linux versions and commit hashes but marks default status as unaffected, so rely on upstream stable commits and distro backport metadata rather than assuming all nearby kernels are vulnerable.
Mitigation direction
Apply Linux kernel updates containing the referenced stable fixes.
Check distribution advisories for CVE-2022-48950 package status.
Prioritize systems where untrusted users can exercise perf_event features.
Use vendor guidance before changing perf_event access controls.
Validation and detection
Inventory deployed Linux kernel versions and package builds.
Map each kernel package to the referenced stable commits or vendor backports.
Confirm vendor advisories identify the CVE as fixed or not affected.
Document any systems still running unverified kernel builds.
Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.
Potential ATT&CK relevance
Conservative CVE-to-ATT&CK context
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ATT&CK lookup starting points
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CVE-2022-48950 mapping review
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