Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump: CVE-2016-7922
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-7922: The AH parser in tcpdump before 4.9.0 has a buffer overflow in print-ah.c:ah_print(). Affects tcpdump versions < 4.9.0-r0. Fixed in 4.9.0-r0. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
tcpdump is a widely used command-line packet analyzer tool that allows users to capture and display the packets being transmitted or received over a network. It is essential for network diagnostics and security analysis. The tool is known for its ability to dissect various network protocols and provide detailed insights into network traffic. However, tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.0 are vulnerable to a critical buffer overflow issue, which can lead to severe security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-7922 originates from a buffer overflow in the AH parser within tcpdump, specifically in the function print-ah.c:ah_print(). This flaw allows an attacker to exploit the buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution, data corruption, or denial of service. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk to systems running affected versions of tcpdump.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.9.0-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade tcpdumpTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If an immediate update is not feasible, consider restricting access to tcpdump or using alternative packet analysis tools until the update can be applied. Additionally, ensure that your network is monitored for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2016-7922 represents a significant security risk for users of tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.0. It is imperative to update to the patched version to safeguard against potential exploitation. Users are encouraged to monitor their systems and consider using tools like Vulert for ongoing vulnerability management.
See every vulnerability recorded for tcpdump →
FAQ
CVE-2016-7922 is a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
You can check your version of tcpdump by running 'tcpdump --version' in your terminal. If it is below 4.9.0, it is vulnerable.
Not addressing this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences, including unauthorized access, data loss, and system crashes.
Yes, you can use tools like Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using a manifest file.
Detailed information about CVE-2016-7922 can be found on various security advisory websites and the official tcpdump documentation.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tcpdump.
