Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in tcpdump: CVE-2017-5342
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-5342: In tcpdump before 4.9.0, a bug in multiple protocol parsers (Geneve, GRE, NSH, OTV, VXLAN and VXLAN GPE) could cause a buffer overflow in print-ether.c:ether_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 display the packets being transmitted or received over a network. It is essential for network diagnostics, security analysis, and protocol development. The tool supports various network protocols and provides detailed insights into network traffic. 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-2017-5342, arises from a bug in multiple protocol parsers within tcpdump, specifically in the handling of Geneve, GRE, NSH, OTV, VXLAN, and VXLAN GPE protocols. This flaw can lead to a buffer overflow in the function print-ether.c:ether_print(), potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code, crash the application, or cause data corruption. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk to systems utilizing affected versions of tcpdump.
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
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider restricting access to tcpdump or running it in a controlled environment where potential exploitation can be mitigated. Additionally, monitor network traffic closely for any unusual activities that may indicate an attempt to exploit this vulnerability.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2017-5342 represents a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump that can have severe implications for network security. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version 4.9.0 or later to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
See every vulnerability recorded for tcpdump →
FAQ
CVE-2017-5342 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump that affects versions prior to 4.9.0, allowing attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code.
You can check your tcpdump version by running tcpdump --version in your terminal. If it is below 4.9.0, it is vulnerable.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, application crashes, or data corruption, posing significant security risks.
Yes, tools like Vulert can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file.
Detailed information can be found in the official CVE database or security advisories related to tcpdump.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tcpdump.
