CVE-2017-12899 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A buffer over-read vulnerability was identified in the DECnet parser of tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.2. This vulnerability can be found in the function print-decnet.c:decnet_print().

Understanding CVE-2017-12899

The DECnet parser in tcpdump before version 4.9.2 has a buffer over-read vulnerability in print-decnet.c:decnet_print().

What is CVE-2017-12899?

The CVE-2017-12899 is a buffer over-read vulnerability in the DECnet parser of tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.2.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12899

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit the buffer over-read issue in the DECnet parser, potentially leading to information disclosure or denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12899

The technical details of the CVE-2017-12899 vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the DECnet parser of tcpdump versions before 4.9.2, specifically in the function print-decnet.c:decnet_print().

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.2
Affected Versions: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting malicious DECnet packets to trigger the buffer over-read in the DECnet parser.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the CVE-2017-12899 vulnerability, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update tcpdump to version 4.9.2 or later to eliminate the buffer over-read vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by tcpdump to address the buffer over-read vulnerability.