CVE-2017-3196 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

CVE-2017-3196 was published on December 15, 2017, and affects the ASUS PCE-AC56 WLAN Card Utilities by Printing Communications Assoc., Inc. This vulnerability in the PCAUSA Rawether framework allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges.

Understanding CVE-2017-3196

This CVE entry highlights a vulnerability in the PCAUSA Rawether framework that enables attackers to manipulate memory beyond standard limits, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2017-3196?

The vulnerability arises from improper validation of BPF data in the Rawether framework, allowing a crafted BPF program to perform unauthorized memory operations when the driver receives network packets.

The Impact of CVE-2017-3196

The vulnerability can be exploited by local attackers to execute any code with SYSTEM privileges, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-3196

The technical details shed light on the specific aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The PCAUSA Rawether framework lacks proper validation of BPF data, enabling maliciously crafted BPF programs to manipulate memory beyond standard limits, leading to potential privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: ASUS PCE-AC56 WLAN Card Utilities
Vendor: Printing Communications Assoc., Inc. (PCAUSA)
Affected Version: Unknown

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows local attackers to exploit the Rawether framework's lack of proper validation, executing arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-3196 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware on the network.
Conduct security training for employees to raise awareness of potential threats.
Implement network segmentation to contain and mitigate potential attacks.
Utilize intrusion detection and prevention systems to monitor network traffic.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and advisories from the vendor.
Implement a robust patch management process to ensure timely deployment of security fixes.