CVE-2017-9951 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

CVE-2017-9951 pertains to a vulnerability found in the try_read_command function within the memcached.c file in versions of memcached prior to 1.4.39. This vulnerability allows attackers to launch denial of service attacks, resulting in a segmentation fault. The issue arises during a key add or set request, involving a comparison between signed and unsigned integers that leads to a heap-based buffer over-read. It is crucial to note that this vulnerability is due to an incomplete fix for CVE-2016-8705.

Understanding CVE-2017-9951

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2017-9951 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2017-9951?

The vulnerability in the try_read_command function within the memcached.c file in memcached versions prior to 1.4.39 allows attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by exploiting a heap-based buffer over-read.

The Impact of CVE-2017-9951

The vulnerability enables attackers to initiate denial of service attacks, resulting in a segmentation fault. It occurs during key add or set requests due to a comparison between signed and unsigned integers, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-9951

This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2017-9951.

Vulnerability Description

The try_read_command function in memcached.c in memcached before 1.4.39 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (segmentation fault) via a request to add/set a key, triggering a heap-based buffer over-read.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: N/A
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: Versions of memcached prior to 1.4.39

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability arises due to a comparison between signed and unsigned integers during key add or set requests, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2017-9951 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update memcached to version 1.4.39 or later to address the vulnerability.
Monitor security advisories for any patches or updates related to this issue.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious traffic.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by memcached to fix the vulnerability and enhance system security.