CVE-2017-5485 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2017-5485 was published on January 28, 2017, and affects the ISO CLNS parser in tcpdump before version 4.9.0. The vulnerability is related to a buffer overflow in the lookup_nsap() function.

Understanding CVE-2017-5485

This CVE entry highlights a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump.

What is CVE-2017-5485?

The lookup_nsap() function in the addrtoname.c file of the ISO CLNS parser in tcpdump prior to version 4.9.0 is susceptible to a buffer overflow attack.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5485

The buffer overflow vulnerability in tcpdump could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5485

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the ISO CLNS parser of tcpdump before version 4.9.0, specifically in the lookup_nsap() function in the addrtoname.c file, leading to a buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting malicious network packets to trigger the buffer overflow in the lookup_nsap() function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-5485 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update tcpdump to version 4.9.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement network-level security controls to filter out potentially malicious packets.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and patch software for known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

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