CVE-2017-17816 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

NASM version 2.14rc0 contains a use-after-free vulnerability in the pp_getline function, allowing remote attackers to launch denial of service attacks.

Understanding CVE-2017-17816

Netwide Assembler (NASM) 2.14rc0 is susceptible to a use-after-free vulnerability in the pp_getline function, potentially leading to remote denial of service attacks.

What is CVE-2017-17816?

NASM version 2.14rc0 is affected by a use-after-free vulnerability in the pp_getline function in asm/preproc.c, enabling remote attackers to exploit the issue and trigger denial of service attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2017-17816

This vulnerability in NASM version 2.14rc0 can be exploited remotely, posing a significant risk of denial of service attacks by malicious actors.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-17816

Netwide Assembler (NASM) version 2.14rc0 is vulnerable to a use-after-free flaw in the pp_getline function.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the pp_getline function in asm/preproc.c, allowing attackers to exploit a use-after-free issue.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely to trigger denial of service attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take:

Update NASM to a non-vulnerable version.
Monitor for any unusual network activity that could indicate an ongoing attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply patches promptly.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent similar attacks.
Conduct security assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that NASM is updated to a secure version to mitigate the risk of exploitation.