CVE-2017-6150 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-6150 affecting F5 Networks BIG-IP systems, leading to potential DoS attacks. Find mitigation steps and patching recommendations here.
F5 Networks, Inc. disclosed a vulnerability affecting certain versions of BIG-IP systems that could lead to a Denial of Service (DoS) condition.
Understanding CVE-2017-6150
This CVE involves a specific scenario in F5 BIG-IP systems where the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) may restart due to the processing of large fragmented packets under certain conditions.
What is CVE-2017-6150?
In F5 BIG-IP systems running versions 13.0.0 or 12.1.0 - 12.1.3.1, utilizing FastL4 profiles with the Reassemble IP Fragments option disabled can trigger TMM restarts when processing specific oversized fragmented packets.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6150
The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to cause a DoS condition on affected systems, potentially disrupting network traffic and services.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6150
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
When certain conditions are met, the processing of specific large fragmented packets in F5 BIG-IP systems can lead to the restart of the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM), impacting system availability.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Products: BIG-IP LTM, AAM, AFM, Analytics, APM, ASM, DNS, Link Controller, PEM, WebSafe
- Versions: 13.0.0, 12.1.0 - 12.1.3.1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted fragmented packets to the affected systems, causing TMM restarts and potential service disruptions.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-6150 and enhance system security, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Implement network-level protections to filter out potentially malicious fragmented packets.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit network traffic for unusual patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.
- Keep systems up to date with the latest security patches and configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- F5 Networks has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure timely application of these patches to safeguard systems against potential exploitation.