CVE-2019-16411 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Suricata version 4.1.4 is affected by a vulnerability that allows attackers to access unallocated memory when processing IPv4 packets with incorrect IPv4Options.

Understanding CVE-2019-16411

This CVE identifies a flaw in Suricata version 4.1.4 that can lead to a memory access issue due to incorrect code implementation.

What is CVE-2019-16411?

The vulnerability in Suricata version 4.1.4 arises from mishandling of IPv4 packets with invalid IPv4Options, causing the function IPV4OptValidateTimestamp to access memory beyond the allocated region.

The Impact of CVE-2019-16411

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the system by sending specially crafted IPv4 packets, potentially leading to a denial of service or arbitrary code execution.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-16411

Suricata version 4.1.4 vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The issue occurs in the decode-ipv4.c file, where the code incorrectly accesses memory beyond the intended range due to a coding error, potentially leading to a security compromise.

Affected Systems and Versions

Suricata version 4.1.4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a series of IPv4 packets with incorrect IPv4Options, triggering the flawed code to access unallocated memory.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2019-16411 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Suricata to version 4.1.5 or later, where the issue has been resolved.
Implement network-level controls to filter out potentially malicious IPv4 packets.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Suricata and other network security tools to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and code reviews to identify and address similar coding errors.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Suricata to ensure the system is protected against known vulnerabilities.