CVE-2017-16914 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2017-16914, published on January 31, 2018, affects the Linux Kernel versions prior to 4.14.8, 4.9.71, 4.1.49, and 4.4.107. The vulnerability lies in the "stub_send_ret_submit()" function in drivers/usb/usbip/stub_tx.c, allowing attackers to exploit it through a crafted USB over IP packet, leading to a denial of service due to a NULL pointer dereference.

Understanding CVE-2017-16914

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2017-16914 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2017-16914?

The CVE-2017-16914 vulnerability is a NULL pointer dereference issue in the Linux Kernel versions before 4.14.8, 4.9.71, 4.1.49, and 4.4.107, specifically in the "stub_send_ret_submit()" function within the USB over IP subsystem.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16914

The vulnerability allows malicious actors to trigger a denial of service condition by sending a specially crafted USB over IP packet, exploiting the NULL pointer dereference flaw.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16914

Explore the technical aspects of the CVE-2017-16914 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the "stub_send_ret_submit()" function in drivers/usb/usbip/stub_tx.c enables attackers to cause a denial of service through a NULL pointer dereference when processing malicious USB over IP packets.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Linux Kernel
Vendor: Flexera Software LLC
Affected Versions: Before version 4.14.8, 4.9.71, 4.1.49, and 4.4.107

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specifically crafted USB over IP packet to the target system, triggering a NULL pointer dereference and resulting in a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2017-16914.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by the Linux Kernel maintainers to address the vulnerability.
Monitor security advisories from vendors and security researchers for updates on this issue.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Linux Kernel to the latest stable versions to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Keep the Linux Kernel up to date with the latest security patches to mitigate the CVE-2017-16914 vulnerability effectively.