CVE-2017-16808 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2017-16808 was published on November 13, 2017, and relates to a vulnerability in tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.3. The vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer over-read associated with specific functions within the tcpdump code.

Understanding CVE-2017-16808

This CVE entry highlights a security issue in tcpdump versions preceding 4.9.3.

What is CVE-2017-16808?

The vulnerability in tcpdump before version 4.9.3 leads to a heap-based buffer over-read. The specific functions affected are aoe_print in print-aoe.c and lookup_emem in addrtoname.c.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16808

The vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to exploit the heap-based buffer over-read, leading to information disclosure or a denial of service (DoS) condition.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16808

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in tcpdump versions prior to 4.9.3 results in a heap-based buffer over-read related to the aoe_print and lookup_emem functions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: All versions before 4.9.3 are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious input that triggers the heap-based buffer over-read in the vulnerable tcpdump functions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16808 involves taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update tcpdump to version 4.9.3 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor security advisories for patches and updates related to tcpdump.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

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