Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump: CVE-2016-7935
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-7935: The RTP parser in tcpdump before 4.9.0 has a buffer overflow in print-udp.c:rtp_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 used for network troubleshooting and analysis. It allows users to capture and display packets being transmitted or received over a network. The tool is widely utilized by network administrators and security professionals for monitoring network traffic. However, prior to version 4.9.0, tcpdump contains a critical vulnerability that can lead to severe security risks, including unauthorized access and data corruption.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-7935, originates from a buffer overflow in the RTP parser within tcpdump, specifically in the function located in print-udp.c:rtp_print(). This flaw allows an attacker to exploit the buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution, system crashes, or unauthorized access to sensitive data. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk level that necessitates immediate attention.
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 the RTP parsing functionality in tcpdump until the package is updated. This may limit some network analysis capabilities but can help mitigate the immediate risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
The buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump, identified as CVE-2016-7935, poses a significant risk to users of the software. Immediate action is required to update to the patched version to mitigate potential security threats. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for tcpdump →
FAQ
CVE-2016-7935 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 the command line. If it is below 4.9.0, it is vulnerable.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data corruption, and potential system crashes.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using just 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.
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