CVE-2017-17811 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-17811, a critical heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in Netwide Assembler (NASM) version 2.14rc0, enabling remote denial-of-service attacks. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
A heap-based buffer overflow in Netwide Assembler (NASM) version 2.14rc0 can lead to a remote denial-of-service attack. This vulnerability is associated with a strcpy function in the paste_tokens function of the asm/preproc.c file.
Understanding CVE-2017-17811
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in NASM version 2.14rc0 that can be exploited for a denial-of-service attack.
What is CVE-2017-17811?
CVE-2017-17811 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in NASM version 2.14rc0, allowing attackers to remotely disrupt services.
The Impact of CVE-2017-17811
The vulnerability can be exploited to execute a remote denial-of-service attack, potentially disrupting the availability of services utilizing NASM.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-17811
This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a heap-based buffer overflow in NASM version 2.14rc0, specifically within the paste_tokens function of the asm/preproc.c file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Netwide Assembler (NASM)
- Vendor: N/A
- Version: 2.14rc0
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is triggered by a strcpy function within the paste_tokens function, enabling attackers to craft malicious inputs to overflow the buffer and disrupt the system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-17811 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update NASM to a patched version that addresses the buffer overflow issue.
- Implement network-level protections to filter out potentially malicious traffic.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and update software components to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by NASM.
- Apply security patches promptly to ensure systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.