CVE-2018-16663 : Security Advisory and Response

Contiki-NG up to version 4.1 is affected by a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the parse_relations function, leading to a security issue during AQL parsing.

Understanding CVE-2018-16663

Contiki-NG through version 4.1 is susceptible to a stack-based buffer overflow in the parse_relations function.

What is CVE-2018-16663?

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Contiki-NG up to version 4.1, specifically in the parse_relations function in os/storage/antelope/aql-parser.c, which triggers a stack-based buffer overflow while parsing AQL (relation storage).

The Impact of CVE-2018-16663

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or crash the application, potentially compromising the system's integrity and confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16663

Contiki-NG up to version 4.1 is affected by a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The parse_relations function in os/storage/antelope/aql-parser.c is the source of the vulnerability, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow during AQL parsing.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: Up to version 4.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by crafting malicious AQL queries to trigger the stack-based buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-16663, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Contiki-NG to a patched version that addresses the buffer overflow.
Implement input validation to prevent malformed AQL queries.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches for Contiki-NG.
Conduct security assessments and code reviews to identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest patches and updates provided by Contiki-NG to fix the stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability.