CVE-2017-5522 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability in MapServer versions before 6.0.6, 6.2.x before 6.2.4, 6.4.x before 6.4.5, and 7.0.x before 7.0.4 allows attackers to remotely crash the system or run arbitrary code through WFS get feature requests, by exploiting a stack-based buffer overflow.

Understanding CVE-2017-5522

What is CVE-2017-5522?

CVE-2017-5522 is a vulnerability in MapServer versions that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting a stack-based buffer overflow.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5522

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to crash the system or execute arbitrary code through specific requests, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5522

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in MapServer versions prior to 6.0.6, 6.2.x before 6.2.4, 6.4.x before 6.4.5, and 7.0.x before 7.0.4, allowing remote attackers to trigger a stack-based buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

MapServer versions before 6.0.6
MapServer 6.2.x before 6.2.4
MapServer 6.4.x before 6.4.5
MapServer 7.0.x before 7.0.4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit this vulnerability through WFS get feature requests, enabling them to crash the system or execute arbitrary code remotely.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the patches provided by MapServer for the affected versions.
Monitor for any unusual WFS get feature requests.
Implement network security measures to restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update MapServer to the latest version to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

MapServer has released patches for versions 6.0.6, 6.2.4, 6.4.5, and 7.0.4 to address this vulnerability.