Buffer Over-read Vulnerability in tcpdump: CVE-2018-14462
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-14462: The ICMP parser in tcpdump before 4.9.3 has a buffer over-read in print-icmp.c:icmp_print(). 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 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 4.9.3 are susceptible to a buffer over-read vulnerability, which can lead to potential information leakage.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-14462, originates from a flaw in the ICMP parser within tcpdump, specifically in the function icmp_print() located in print-icmp.c. This buffer over-read can allow an attacker to read beyond the allocated memory, potentially exposing sensitive information. The ramifications of this vulnerability include the risk of information disclosure, which could be exploited by malicious actors to gain insights into network traffic and potentially compromise network security.
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 temporary workaround, users can limit the use of tcpdump to trusted networks and avoid capturing sensitive traffic until the package is updated to a secure version. Additionally, consider using alternative network monitoring tools that do not exhibit this vulnerability.
Conclusion
The buffer over-read vulnerability in tcpdump, identified as CVE-2018-14462, poses a significant risk to network security. Users are strongly advised to update to version 4.9.3 or later to mitigate this risk. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2018-14462 is a buffer over-read vulnerability found in tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.3, which can lead to information leakage.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability can lead to information disclosure, allowing attackers to read sensitive data from memory, which may compromise network security.
Run the command 'apk add tcpdump@4.9.3-r0' in your terminal to update tcpdump to the secure version.
Yes, avoid capturing sensitive traffic and limit tcpdump usage to trusted networks until you can update to the patched version.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tcpdump.
