Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump and libpcap: CVE-2018-16301
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-16301: The command-line argument parser in tcpdump before 4.99.0 has a buffer overflow in tcpdump.c:read_infile(). Affects libpcap versions < 1.1.1-r0. Fixed in 1.1.1-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
tcpdump is a powerful command-line packet analyzer tool used for network traffic monitoring and analysis. It allows users to capture and display the packets being transmitted or received over a network. The libpcap library, which tcpdump relies on, provides a portable framework for low-level network monitoring. This vulnerability affects versions of tcpdump and libpcap prior to their respective patched releases, making them susceptible to exploitation through crafted input files.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-16301, arises from a buffer overflow in the command-line argument parser of tcpdump, specifically in the read_infile() function. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by creating a specially crafted 4GB file and specifying its name using the -F command-line argument. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, potentially compromising the system's integrity and confidentiality. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.1.1-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade libpcapTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid using the -F command-line argument with tcpdump until the package is updated to a secure version. This will prevent the exploitation of the buffer overflow vulnerability.
Conclusion
CVE-2018-16301 is a significant vulnerability affecting tcpdump and libpcap that can lead to severe security risks if exploited. Users are strongly advised to update their packages to the latest versions to safeguard their systems. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and identify vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2018-16301 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump and libpcap that can be exploited by providing a specially crafted file as input.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access or control over the affected system.
Versions of tcpdump and libpcap prior to 4.9.3-r0 and 1.9.1-r0 respectively are affected by this vulnerability.
You can check if your application is affected by using Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to use the Vulert playground.
If immediate updates are not possible, refrain from using the -F command-line argument with tcpdump to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
References
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