CVE-2017-6455 : What You Need to Know

NTP before 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94, when using PPSAPI, allows local users to gain privileges via a DLL in the PPSAPI_DLLS environment variable.

Understanding CVE-2017-6455

This CVE involves a vulnerability in NTP versions that could allow local users to elevate their privileges.

What is CVE-2017-6455?

CVE-2017-6455 is a security vulnerability in NTP versions prior to 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94. It enables local users to obtain elevated privileges by utilizing a DLL in the PPSAPI_DLLS environment variable.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6455

The vulnerability can be exploited by local users to gain elevated privileges if PPSAPI is enabled in affected NTP versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6455

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Local users can exploit a DLL in the PPSAPI_DLLS environment variable to obtain elevated privileges in NTP versions prior to 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94.

Affected Systems and Versions

NTP versions before 4.2.8p10
NTP 4.3.x versions before 4.3.94

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows local users to gain elevated privileges through the manipulation of a DLL in the PPSAPI_DLLS environment variable.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6455 requires specific actions to mitigate the risk.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable PPSAPI if not essential for system functionality
Monitor and restrict access to the PPSAPI_DLLS environment variable

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update NTP to the latest secure version
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by NTP to address the vulnerability