CVE-2017-5597 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.3 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.9 were affected by a DHCPv6 dissector issue that could lead to a large loop. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2017-5597

This CVE addresses a vulnerability in Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.3 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.9 related to the DHCPv6 dissector.

What is CVE-2017-5597?

The DHCPv6 dissector in Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.3 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.9 could enter an excessively long loop due to packet injection or a corrupted capture file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5597

The vulnerability could result in a denial of service (DoS) condition by causing Wireshark to enter a large loop, triggered by specific network packets or malformed capture files.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5597

Wireshark's DHCPv6 dissector issue is detailed below:

Vulnerability Description

The problem was resolved by modifying a data type in epan/dissectors/packet-dhcpv6.c to prevent integer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.3
Wireshark versions 2.0.0 to 2.0.9

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited through packet injection or a corrupted capture file, triggering the DHCPv6 dissector to enter an infinite loop.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-5597, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Wireshark to the latest patched version.
Avoid opening suspicious or untrusted capture files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Wireshark and other network analysis tools.
Implement network segmentation to contain potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Wireshark to mitigate the DHCPv6 dissector vulnerability.