CVE-2018-9261 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Wireshark versions 2.4.0 to 2.4.5 and 2.2.0 to 2.2.13 were vulnerable to a heap-based buffer overflow in the NBAP dissector. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2018-9261

What is CVE-2018-9261?

In Wireshark versions 2.4.0 to 2.4.5 and 2.2.0 to 2.2.13, a vulnerability in the NBAP dissector could lead to a heap-based buffer overflow due to a large loop. The issue was addressed by prohibiting self-linking of DCH-IDs in the packet-nbap.c file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-9261

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to crash Wireshark by triggering a heap-based buffer overflow, potentially leading to remote code execution or denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-9261

Vulnerability Description

Wireshark versions 2.4.0 to 2.4.5 and 2.2.0 to 2.2.13 were susceptible to a heap-based buffer overflow in the NBAP dissector.
The issue stemmed from a large loop that could result in a crash.
The problem was resolved by disallowing self-linking of DCH-IDs in the packet-nbap.c file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Wireshark versions 2.4.0 to 2.4.5 and 2.2.0 to 2.2.13

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious NBAP packet to trigger the heap-based buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Wireshark to the latest patched version.
Avoid opening suspicious or untrusted NBAP packets.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Wireshark and other software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Wireshark promptly to address this vulnerability.