CVE-2017-7668 : Security Advisory and Response

Apache HTTP Server 2.2.32 and 2.4.24/2.4.25 are affected by a vulnerability that allows attackers to cause a denial of service or potentially execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2017-7668

This CVE involves a bug introduced in Apache httpd versions 2.2.32 and 2.4.24, impacting the parsing of token lists.

What is CVE-2017-7668?

The bug in Apache httpd 2.2.32 and 2.4.24 allows the function ap_find_token() to exceed input string boundaries, potentially leading to a segmentation fault or incorrect value return when manipulating request headers maliciously.

The Impact of CVE-2017-7668

The vulnerability can result in a denial of service (DoS) attack or potentially enable attackers to execute arbitrary code by exploiting the parsing issue in Apache httpd.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-7668

Apache HTTP Server versions 2.2.32 and 2.4.24/2.4.25 are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The bug introduced in Apache httpd allows the function ap_find_token() to search past the end of its input string, potentially leading to a DoS or incorrect value return.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache HTTP Server
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions: 2.2.32, 2.4.24, 2.4.25

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a sequence of request headers to trigger a segmentation fault or manipulate the return value of ap_find_token().

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-7668, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Apache Software Foundation.
Monitor for any unusual activity on Apache HTTP Server.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Apache HTTP Server to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent DoS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Apache Software Foundation to address CVE-2017-7668.