Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump Package
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-7933: The PPP parser in tcpdump before 4.9.0 has a buffer overflow in print-ppp.c:ppp_hdlc_if_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 powerful command-line packet analyzer tool used for network traffic analysis. It allows users to capture and display packets being transmitted or received over a network to troubleshoot issues or monitor network activity. The package is widely used in various environments, including servers and embedded systems. However, it is susceptible to a critical buffer overflow vulnerability that can lead to severe security risks if not addressed.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-7933, originates from a buffer overflow in the PPP parser within tcpdump, specifically in the function print-ppp.c:ppp_hdlc_if_print(). This flaw can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control over the affected system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its critical nature and the high potential for impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
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 measure, users can limit the exposure of tcpdump by restricting its use to trusted networks and ensuring that it is not run with elevated privileges. Additionally, avoid processing untrusted or malformed packets that could trigger the vulnerability.
Conclusion
The buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump (CVE-2016-7933) poses a significant risk to systems using this package. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to safeguard their systems against potential exploitation. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for tcpdump →
FAQ
CVE-2016-7933 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in the tcpdump package that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential control over the affected system.
Yes, the patch is available in tcpdump version 4.9.0-r0 and later. Users should update their packages to mitigate the risk.
If immediate updates are not possible, restrict the use of tcpdump to trusted networks and avoid processing untrusted packets as a temporary workaround.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tcpdump.
