CVE-2021-22173 : Security Advisory and Response

A memory leak in the USB HID dissector in Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.2 has been identified, potentially leading to denial of service through packet injection or crafted capture files.

Understanding CVE-2021-22173

This section delves into the impact and technical details of CVE-2021-22173.

What is CVE-2021-22173?

The identified memory leak in the USB HID dissector in Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.2 allows attackers to trigger a denial of service by injecting malicious packets or utilizing crafted capture files.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22173

With a CVSS base score of 3.7 (Low), this vulnerability poses a risk of denial of service. The attack complexity is high, but the availability impact is low with no impact on confidentiality or integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22173

This section covers vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a memory leak in the USB HID dissector in Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

Wireshark versions >=3.4.0 and <3.4.3 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through packet injection or by using specially crafted capture files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover how to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2021-22173.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Wireshark to version 3.4.3 or above to eliminate the vulnerability. Network monitoring and filtering can also help prevent exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Wireshark and other software to the latest versions. Employ network security measures and keep abreast of security advisories for proactive protection.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by Wireshark to address vulnerabilities and enhance software security.