CVE-2021-22174 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-22174, a vulnerability in Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.2 that allows denial of service via packet injection or crafted capture file.

Understanding CVE-2021-22174

In this section, we will delve into the nature, impact, and technical details of the CVE-2021-22174 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-22174?

The CVE-2021-22174 vulnerability refers to a crash in the USB HID dissector in Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.2. This vulnerability allows threat actors to carry out a denial of service attack through packet injection or a crafted capture file.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22174

With a base score of 3.7, classified as low severity, the impact of CVE-2021-22174 is limited to denial of service. The attack complexity is high, requiring no user interaction, and the availability impact is low.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22174

Let's explore the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-22174 vulnerability in Wireshark.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from uncontrolled memory allocation in the USB HID dissector, allowing malicious actors to exploit it through packet injection or a crafted capture file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.2 are affected by this vulnerability, exposing systems using these versions to the risk of denial of service attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Threat actors can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious packets or supplying a specifically crafted capture file to trigger a crash in the USB HID dissector.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-22174 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Wireshark to versions higher than 3.4.2 to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Implementing network segmentation can also help contain potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Practicing good network hygiene, maintaining up-to-date software, and monitoring network traffic for suspicious activities are essential long-term security practices.

Patching and Updates

Regularly checking for software updates and security advisories from Wireshark and related vendors can ensure timely patching and protection against known vulnerabilities.