CVE-2022-36004 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

TensorFlow, an open-source machine learning platform, is impacted by a vulnerability in the

tf.random.gamma

function, potentially leading to a denial of service attack. The issue has been patched, but certain versions remain vulnerable.

Understanding CVE-2022-36004

This CVE affects specific versions of TensorFlow due to a vulnerability in the

tf.random.gamma

function that can be exploited for a denial of service attack. The CVSS base score is 5.9, indicating a medium severity issue.

What is CVE-2022-36004?

The vulnerability arises when

tf.random.gamma

is provided with large input shapes and rates, resulting in a

CHECK

fail that could be abused by an attacker to trigger a denial of service attack.

The Impact of CVE-2022-36004

The vulnerability poses a high availability impact, with no confidentiality or integrity impact. It requires no user interaction and has a high attack complexity over the network.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-36004

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-617: Reachable Assertion. Affected versions of TensorFlow include < 2.7.2, >= 2.8.0 and < 2.8.1, and >= 2.9.0 and < 2.9.1. The issue has been addressed in TensorFlow 2.10.0, with backports also made to 2.9.1, 2.8.1, and 2.7.2

Vulnerability Description

When

tf.random.gamma

processes large input shape and rates, it can lead to a

CHECK

fail, enabling a potential denial of service attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems running TensorFlow versions < 2.7.2, >= 2.8.0 and < 2.8.1, and >= 2.9.0 and < 2.9.1 are vulnerable to this issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by providing large input shapes and rates to

tf.random.gamma

, triggering a

CHECK

fail and potentially causing a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

As a response to CVE-2022-36004, immediate steps should be taken to update TensorFlow to version 2.10.0 to eliminate the vulnerability. Additionally, adopting long-term security practices and staying updated on patch releases is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TensorFlow to version 2.10.0 to ensure the vulnerability is mitigated.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security advisories, apply patches promptly, and follow secure coding practices to minimize the risk of such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed on security updates from TensorFlow, especially related to CVE-2022-36004, and apply patches as soon as they are released.