CVE-2017-3144 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-3144, a vulnerability in ISC DHCP versions 4.1.0 to 4.1-ESV-R15, 4.2.0 to 4.2.8, and 4.3.0 to 4.3.6 that can exhaust socket descriptors, impacting server availability. Find mitigation steps here.
A vulnerability in ISC DHCP versions 4.1.0 to 4.1-ESV-R15, 4.2.0 to 4.2.8, and 4.3.0 to 4.3.6 can lead to socket descriptor exhaustion due to improper cleanup of closed OMAPI connections.
Understanding CVE-2017-3144
This CVE highlights a critical issue in ISC DHCP that can impact the availability of the DHCP server.
What is CVE-2017-3144?
The vulnerability arises from the failure to adequately clean up closed OMAPI connections, potentially depleting the available pool of socket descriptors in the DHCP server.
The Impact of CVE-2017-3144
- Attack Vector: Network
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: None
- Confidentiality Impact: None
- Integrity Impact: None
- Availability Impact: Low
- CVSS Base Score: 5.3 (Medium Severity)
Technical Details of CVE-2017-3144
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an attacker with access to the OMAPI control port to exhaust the socket descriptor pool, potentially denying legitimate connections to the server operator.
Affected Systems and Versions
- ISC DHCP versions 4.1.0 to 4.1-ESV-R15
- ISC DHCP versions 4.2.0 to 4.2.8
- ISC DHCP versions 4.3.0 to 4.3.6
- Older versions may also be affected but are beyond their end-of-life.
- Releases prior to 4.1.0 have not been tested.
Exploitation Mechanism
By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can exhaust the pool of socket descriptors available to the DHCP server, potentially blocking the server operator from controlling server state using OMAPI.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-3144 is crucial for maintaining network security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disallow access to the OMAPI control port from unauthorized clients.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch ISC DHCP to the latest version.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely application of security patches and updates to mitigate the vulnerability effectively.