CVE-2017-17878 : Security Advisory and Response

Valve Steam Link build 643 has a vulnerability where root passwords longer than 8 characters are truncated due to the default use of DES encryption.

Understanding CVE-2017-17878

This CVE involves a security issue in Valve Steam Link build 643 that affects the length of root passwords.

What is CVE-2017-17878?

CVE-2017-17878 is a vulnerability in Valve Steam Link build 643 that causes root passwords exceeding 8 characters to be shortened because of the default use of DES encryption.

The Impact of CVE-2017-17878

The vulnerability can lead to weakened security as longer passwords are truncated, potentially making it easier for attackers to guess or brute-force passwords.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-17878

Valve Steam Link build 643 vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises when root passwords are longer than 8 characters, resulting in truncation due to the use of DES encryption by default.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected System: Valve Steam Link build 643
Affected Versions: Not specified

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can potentially exploit this vulnerability by targeting systems with root passwords longer than 8 characters, taking advantage of the truncation caused by DES encryption.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-17878.

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid setting root passwords longer than 8 characters in Valve Steam Link build 643.
Consider changing the default password encryption algorithm to a more secure option.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password policies across all systems.
Regularly review and update password encryption mechanisms to enhance security.

Patching and Updates

Check for patches or updates from Valve to address the password truncation vulnerability in Steam Link build 643.