CVE-2017-7704 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-7704 affecting Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps to secure your network.
Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 were vulnerable to an issue in the DOF dissector that could lead to an endless loop. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
Understanding CVE-2017-7704
Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 were affected by a vulnerability in the DOF dissector, potentially causing an infinite loop due to packet injection or corrupted capture files.
What is CVE-2017-7704?
In Wireshark 2.2.0 to 2.2.5, the DOF dissector could go into an infinite loop, triggered by packet injection or a malformed capture file. The issue was addressed by modifying the code in epan/dissectors/packet-dof.c.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7704
The vulnerability could result in Wireshark getting stuck in an endless loop, impacting the analysis of network traffic and potentially causing denial of service.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7704
Wireshark's vulnerability in versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 had the following technical aspects:
Vulnerability Description
The DOF dissector in Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 could enter an infinite loop due to packet injection or corrupted capture files. The issue was resolved by changing the integer data type and adjusting a return value in epan/dissectors/packet-dof.c.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Wireshark
- Vendor: Wireshark
- Versions: 2.2.0 to 2.2.5
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by injecting packets or using malformed capture files to trigger the infinite loop in the DOF dissector.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-7704, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Wireshark to a patched version.
- Avoid opening suspicious capture files.
- Monitor vendor advisories for security updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Wireshark and other software.
- Implement network segmentation to contain potential threats.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Wireshark to mitigate the risk of exploitation.