CVE-2017-18350 : What You Need to Know

A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in bitcoind and Bitcoin-Qt versions before 0.15.1 can be exploited by an attacker-controlled SOCKS proxy server due to an integer signedness error.

Understanding CVE-2017-18350

If an attacker-controlled SOCKS proxy server is utilized, there is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in bitcoind and Bitcoin-Qt versions before 0.15.1. This vulnerability occurs due to an integer signedness error when the proxy server acknowledges an unexpected target domain name.

What is CVE-2017-18350?

CVE-2017-18350 is a vulnerability in bitcoind and Bitcoin-Qt versions prior to 0.15.1 that allows a stack-based buffer overflow when interacting with an attacker-controlled SOCKS proxy server.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18350

This vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18350

The technical details of this CVE include:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an integer signedness error when the proxy server responds with an acknowledgement of an unexpected target domain name.

Affected Systems and Versions

bitcoind and Bitcoin-Qt versions before 0.15.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker-controlled SOCKS proxy server

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2017-18350.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 0.15.1 or later to patch the vulnerability
Avoid using untrusted SOCKS proxy servers

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential threats

Patching and Updates

Ensure all systems running bitcoind and Bitcoin-Qt are updated to version 0.15.1 or above to address the vulnerability