CVE-2018-16602 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability has been identified in Amazon Web Services (AWS) FreeRTOS up to version 1.3.1 and FreeRTOS up to version V10.0.1, as well as in the WITTENSTEIN WHIS Connect middleware TCP/IP component. This vulnerability allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information by exploiting an out-of-bounds memory access in the DHCP response parsing function.

Understanding CVE-2018-16602

This CVE involves a security issue in FreeRTOS and the WITTENSTEIN WHIS Connect middleware TCP/IP component.

What is CVE-2018-16602?

CVE-2018-16602 is a vulnerability that enables unauthorized access to sensitive data by exploiting a memory access flaw in DHCP response parsing.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16602

The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to critical information, posing a risk to the confidentiality and integrity of systems utilizing the affected versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16602

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an out-of-bounds memory access during the parsing of DHCP responses in the prvProcessDHCPReplies function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Amazon Web Services (AWS) FreeRTOS up to version 1.3.1
FreeRTOS up to version V10.0.1 (with FreeRTOS+TCP)
WITTENSTEIN WHIS Connect middleware TCP/IP component

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the out-of-bounds memory access in the DHCP response parsing function to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-16602 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update FreeRTOS to the latest patched version.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users and administrators on best security practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and FreeRTOS to address the vulnerability.