CVE-2017-11696 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-11696, a vulnerability in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) that could lead to a heap-based buffer overflow. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability has been discovered in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) that could potentially lead to a heap-based buffer overflow. This vulnerability specifically resides in the __hash_open function in lib/dbm/src/hash.c. If exploited, context-dependent attackers could cause unspecified damage by utilizing a carefully crafted cert8.db file.
Understanding CVE-2017-11696
This CVE entry describes a specific vulnerability in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) that could be exploited by attackers to trigger a heap-based buffer overflow.
What is CVE-2017-11696?
CVE-2017-11696 is a security vulnerability found in the __hash_open function in lib/dbm/src/hash.c within Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS). It allows attackers to potentially execute malicious code by manipulating a cert8.db file.
The Impact of CVE-2017-11696
The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to context-dependent attackers causing unspecified damage by using a carefully crafted cert8.db file.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-11696
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow in the __hash_open function in lib/dbm/src/hash.c within Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS).
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by utilizing a carefully crafted cert8.db file to trigger the heap-based buffer overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-11696 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant security patches provided by the vendor.
- Monitor for any unusual activities on the network.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and applications.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all systems are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.