CVE-2022-36018 : Security Advisory and Response

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

RaggedTensorToVariant

function. The vulnerability could be exploited to trigger a denial-of-service attack due to a

CHECK

fail. This issue has been assigned the CVE ID CVE-2022-36018.

Understanding CVE-2022-36018

This section will cover the details of the vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2022-36018?

The CVE-2022-36018 vulnerability affects TensorFlow versions prior to 2.7.2, versions between 2.8.0 and 2.8.1, and versions between 2.9.0 and 2.9.1. When a specific condition is met in the

RaggedTensorToVariant

function, it can lead to a

CHECK

fail, which malicious actors can leverage for denial-of-service attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2022-36018

With a CVSS base score of 5.9, this vulnerability has a medium severity level. It has a high availability impact, but no impact on confidentiality or integrity. The attack complexity is high, and it can be exploited via a network without requiring privileges or user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-36018

Let's delve into the technical aspects of the CVE-2022-36018 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises in the

RaggedTensorToVariant

function within TensorFlow, triggered by certain conditions in list structures. This can be abused to cause a denial-of-service scenario.

Affected Systems and Versions

TensorFlow versions prior to 2.7.2, versions between 2.8.0 and 2.8.1, and versions between 2.9.0 and 2.9.1 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Malicious actors can exploit the vulnerability by providing a specific list structure to the

RaggedTensorToVariant

function in TensorFlow, leading to a

CHECK

fail.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard your systems, consider the following mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TensorFlow to version 2.10.0 or apply the specific GitHub commit (88f93dfe691563baa4ae1e80ccde2d5c7a143821) that addresses the vulnerability. Additionally, users can cherrypick the fix on TensorFlow versions 2.9.1, 2.8.1, and 2.7.2.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensure timely updates and patches for TensorFlow to prevent exposure to known vulnerabilities. Implement secure coding practices and regularly monitor for security advisories.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about TensorFlow security advisories and patch releases. Regularly update your TensorFlow installations to the latest versions that include security fixes.