Heap-Based Buffer Over-Read in tcpdump: CVE-2017-16808
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-16808: tcpdump before 4.9.3 has a heap-based buffer over-read related to aoe_print in print-aoe.c and lookup_emem in addrtoname.c. Affects tcpdump versions < 4.9.3-r0. Fixed in 4.9.3-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 the packets being transmitted or received over a network. The tool is widely utilized by network administrators and security professionals for troubleshooting and security auditing. However, tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.3 are vulnerable to a heap-based buffer over-read, which can lead to potential information leakage and security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16808 is a heap-based buffer over-read that affects tcpdump versions before 4.9.3. This issue arises from improper handling of certain inputs in the aoe_print function in print-aoe.c and the lookup_emem function in addrtoname.c. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to read sensitive information from memory, potentially leading to unauthorized access to data. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 5.5, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.9.3-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 workaround, users can avoid using the affected features of tcpdump until the package is updated. However, the most effective solution is to apply the patch by updating to the fixed version.
Conclusion
The tcpdump vulnerability CVE-2017-16808 poses a significant risk due to its potential for information leakage through a heap-based buffer over-read. Users are strongly advised to update to version 4.9.3 or later to mitigate this risk. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing open-source vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2017-16808 is a vulnerability in tcpdump that allows for a heap-based buffer over-read, potentially leading to information leakage.
You can check your version of tcpdump by running 'tcpdump -v' in the command line. If it is below 4.9.3, it is vulnerable.
The primary risk is the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in memory, which could be exploited by attackers.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just a manifest file like package-lock.json.
You can update tcpdump using your package manager. For Alpine Linux, use the command 'apk add --update tcpdump=4.9.3-r0'.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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