Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump: CVE-2016-7937
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-7937: The VAT parser in tcpdump before 4.9.0 has a buffer overflow in print-udp.c:vat_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 monitoring 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 troubleshooting and monitoring network performance. However, tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.0 are susceptible to a critical buffer overflow vulnerability that can be exploited by attackers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-7937, originates from a flaw in the VAT parser within tcpdump, specifically in the function vat_print() located in print-udp.c. This buffer overflow can be triggered by specially crafted packets, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code, leading to unauthorized access, data corruption, or denial of service. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk level.
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 processing untrusted or malformed packets that may exploit this vulnerability. However, this is not a permanent solution and updating the package is strongly recommended.
Conclusion
The CVE-2016-7937 vulnerability in tcpdump poses a significant risk to users of the software. It is crucial to update to the patched version to protect against potential exploitation. Users are encouraged to remain vigilant and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in their applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2016-7937 is a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump that can be exploited through specially crafted packets.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, unauthorized access, data corruption, or denial of service.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Users should update tcpdump to version 4.9.0 or later to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Vulert is a tool that monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tcpdump.
