CVE-2017-7746 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-7746 affecting Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.11. Find out how to prevent the SLSK dissector endless loop issue and mitigate potential risks.
Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.11 were susceptible to an issue in the SLSK dissector that could lead to an endless loop. The problem was related to packet injection or corrupted capture files. The vulnerability was addressed by modifying the epan/dissectors/packet-slsk.c file to include additional checks.
Understanding CVE-2017-7746
This CVE entry pertains to a specific vulnerability in Wireshark that could potentially cause the software to enter an infinite loop under certain conditions.
What is CVE-2017-7746?
The SLSK dissector in Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.11 had a flaw that could result in an endless loop due to packet injection or corrupted capture files.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7746
The vulnerability could be exploited to trigger an infinite loop in Wireshark, potentially leading to denial of service or other security implications.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7746
Wireshark vulnerability details and mitigation strategies.
Vulnerability Description
The SLSK dissector in Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5 and 2.0.0 to 2.0.11 could enter an endless loop due to packet injection or corrupted capture files.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Wireshark versions 2.2.0 to 2.2.5
- Wireshark versions 2.0.0 to 2.0.11
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be triggered by injecting specific packets or using malformed capture files, causing the SLSK dissector to enter an infinite loop.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2017-7746 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Wireshark to the latest version that includes the fix for CVE-2017-7746.
- Avoid opening suspicious or untrusted capture files.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Wireshark and other software to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify unusual traffic patterns.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Wireshark is regularly updated to the latest version to mitigate the CVE-2017-7746 vulnerability.