CVE-2017-7285 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-7285, a vulnerability in MikroTik Version 6.38.5 allowing remote attackers to flood the system with TCP RST packets, causing CPU exhaustion and denial of new TCP connections. Find mitigation steps and patching recommendations here.
A vulnerability in the network stack of MikroTik Version 6.38.5 allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to exhaust CPU by flooding TCP RST packets, rendering the affected router unable to accept new TCP connections.
Understanding CVE-2017-7285
An exploit in the network stack of MikroTik Version 6.38.5 enables a remote attacker to overwhelm the system with TCP RST packets, causing CPU depletion.
What is CVE-2017-7285?
This CVE refers to a vulnerability in MikroTik Version 6.38.5 that allows unauthorized attackers to flood the system with TCP RST packets, leading to CPU exhaustion and the inability to handle new TCP connections.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7285
The vulnerability can result in a denial of service (DoS) condition, where the affected router becomes unresponsive to new TCP connection requests due to CPU overload caused by the flood of TCP RST packets.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7285
The technical aspects of the CVE-2017-7285 vulnerability are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
- Exploit in MikroTik Version 6.38.5 network stack
- Allows remote attackers to flood system with TCP RST packets
- Leads to CPU exhaustion and unresponsiveness to new TCP connections
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: MikroTik Version 6.38.5
- Vendor: MikroTik
- Version Status: Affected
Exploitation Mechanism
- Remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability without authentication
- Flood the system with an excessive amount of TCP RST packets
- Deplete CPU capacity, rendering the router unable to handle new TCP connections
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-7285, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly
- Implement network-level controls to filter out malicious traffic
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all network devices
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities
- Educate users and administrators on best security practices
Patching and Updates
- Check for and apply patches released by MikroTik to address the vulnerability
- Keep all network devices up to date with the latest firmware and security updates