CVE-2017-5342 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In earlier versions of tcpdump (prior to 4.9.0), a software glitch was discovered in several protocol analyzers such as Geneve, GRE, NSH, OTV, VXLAN, and VXLAN GPE. This glitch could potentially lead to a buffer overflow occurring in the print-ether.c:ether_print() function.

Understanding CVE-2017-5342

In tcpdump before 4.9.0, a bug in multiple protocol parsers (Geneve, GRE, NSH, OTV, VXLAN, and VXLAN GPE) could cause a buffer overflow in print-ether.c:ether_print().

What is CVE-2017-5342?

CVE-2017-5342 is a vulnerability found in earlier versions of tcpdump, where a software glitch in various protocol analyzers could result in a buffer overflow in the print-ether.c:ether_print() function.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5342

This vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by triggering a buffer overflow in the affected protocol analyzers.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5342

Vulnerability Description

A bug in multiple protocol parsers (Geneve, GRE, NSH, OTV, VXLAN, and VXLAN GPE) in tcpdump before version 4.9.0 could lead to a buffer overflow in the print-ether.c:ether_print() function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: All versions prior to 4.9.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by crafting malicious network packets that trigger the buffer overflow in the affected protocol analyzers.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update tcpdump to version 4.9.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by the tcpdump vendor to address the vulnerability.