CVE-2017-6460 : What You Need to Know

A buffer overflow vulnerability in the reslist function of ntpq in NTP versions prior to 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94 allows remote servers to trigger an unspecified impact by exploiting a long flagstr variable in a restriction list response.

Understanding CVE-2017-6460

This CVE entry describes a buffer overflow vulnerability in NTP that could be exploited remotely.

What is CVE-2017-6460?

The vulnerability in the reslist function of ntpq in NTP versions prior to 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94 allows remote servers to cause an unspecified impact by manipulating a long flagstr variable in a restriction list response.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6460

The vulnerability can be exploited by remote servers to execute arbitrary code or crash the NTP service.
Attackers can potentially compromise the integrity and availability of NTP servers.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6460

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a stack-based buffer overflow in the reslist function of ntpq in NTP.
It occurs in versions prior to 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94.

Affected Systems and Versions

NTP versions before 4.2.8p10 and 4.3.x before 4.3.94 are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote servers can exploit the vulnerability by sending a long flagstr variable in a restriction list response.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update NTP to version 4.2.8p10 or 4.3.94 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of NTP servers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and patch NTP servers to address security vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by NTP to fix the buffer overflow vulnerability.