Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump: CVE-2016-7927
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-7927: The IEEE 802.11 parser in tcpdump before 4.9.0 has a buffer overflow in print-802_11.c:ieee802_11_radio_print(). Affects tcpdump versions < 4.9.0-r0. Fixed in 4.9.0-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
tcpdump is a widely-used command-line packet analyzer tool that allows users to capture and analyze network traffic. It is essential for network troubleshooting, security analysis, and protocol development. The tool supports various protocols and provides detailed insights into network packets. However, tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.0 are vulnerable to a critical buffer overflow issue that can lead to severe security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-7927, originates from a buffer overflow in the IEEE 802.11 parser within tcpdump, specifically in the function print-802_11.c:ieee802_11_radio_print(). This flaw allows an attacker to exploit the vulnerability by crafting malicious packets that, when processed by tcpdump, can lead to arbitrary code execution or crashes. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating its critical nature and potential for significant impact on affected systems.
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
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using tcpdump to analyze untrusted or potentially malicious network traffic until the package is updated to a secure version.
Conclusion
The buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump (CVE-2016-7927) poses a significant risk to users of the tool. It is essential to update to version 4.9.0 or later to mitigate this risk. Users should also consider using tools like Vulert for ongoing vulnerability monitoring.
See every vulnerability recorded for tcpdump →
FAQ
CVE-2016-7927 is a critical buffer overflow vulnerability found in tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.0, which can lead to arbitrary code execution.
You can check your tcpdump version by running 'tcpdump -v' in your terminal. If it is below 4.9.0, it is vulnerable.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, crashes, or unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tcpdump.
