CVE-2017-12988 : Security Advisory and Response

In the print-telnet.c file of tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.2, a buffer over-read issue exists in the telnet parser function telnet_parse().

Understanding CVE-2017-12988

What is CVE-2017-12988?

The telnet parser in tcpdump before version 4.9.2 suffers from a buffer over-read vulnerability in print-telnet.c:telnet_parse().

The Impact of CVE-2017-12988

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit the telnet parser function, potentially leading to information disclosure or denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12988

Vulnerability Description

The buffer over-read issue in the telnet parser function telnet_parse() in tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: All versions prior to 4.9.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious telnet packet to trigger the buffer over-read in the telnet parser function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update tcpdump to version 4.9.2 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor vendor advisories for patches and apply them promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to the latest versions.
Implement network segmentation to minimize the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

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