CVE-2022-49213: ath10k: Fix error handling in ath10k_setup_msa_resources
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
ath10k: Fix error handling in ath10k_setup_msa_resources
The device_node pointer is returned by of_parse_phandle() with refcount
incremented. We should use of_node_put() on it when done.
This function only calls of_node_put() in the regular path.
And it will cause refcount leak in error path.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
CVE-2022-49213 is a Linux kernel issue in the ath10k wireless driver. A reference-count leak occurs on an error path, which can affect system availability. The CVSS score is 5.5 and requires local, low-privileged access. There is no provided evidence of active exploitation or KEV listing.
Executive priority
Treat as a routine kernel availability fix, not an emergency. Prioritize patching internet-facing or operationally critical Linux systems only if they use ath10k or affected kernel builds. Bundle remediation with normal kernel maintenance unless vendor guidance raises urgency.
Technical view
The flaw is in ath10k_setup_msa_resources. of_parse_phandle() increments a device_node reference, but error handling failed to call of_node_put(), causing a refcount leak. The CVSS vector is AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H. Kernel stable commit references are provided as fixes.
Likely exposure
Exposure is most likely on Linux systems using affected kernels with the ath10k driver or relevant hardware/support enabled. The source bundle lists Linux kernel versions and stable commit references, but affected-version boundaries are not fully clear from the provided data.
Exploitation context
The vulnerability requires local access with low privileges and does not require user interaction. Impact is availability only, according to the CVSS vector. No source in the bundle reports public exploitation, and the CVE is not marked as CISA KEV.
Researcher notes
The public record describes a refcount leak in an ath10k error path, fixed by adding proper of_node_put() handling. Evidence is limited to the CVE record and kernel stable references. No exploit details, CWE mapping, or exploitation reports are provided in the bundle.
Mitigation direction
Apply vendor or distribution kernel updates containing the referenced stable fixes.
Prioritize systems using ath10k-supported wireless hardware or loading the ath10k driver.
If ath10k is not required, consult vendor guidance before disabling related support.
Track Linux stable and distribution advisories for backported fixes.
Validation and detection
Inventory Linux kernel versions across affected fleets.
Check whether ath10k modules are present or loaded.
Confirm installed kernels include the referenced stable fix commits or vendor backports.
Review distribution security advisories for CVE-2022-49213 coverage.
Validate remediation in staging before broad kernel rollout.
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-2022-49213 mapping review
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We collect every scored CVSS vector available in the official CNA and ADP containers. When more than one version is present, the table keeps the source vectors side by side instead of collapsing them into the highest score.