CVE-2021-39928 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-39928, a null pointer exception vulnerability in Wireshark, potentially leading to denial of service attacks. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
This CVE-2021-39928 analysis focuses on a null pointer exception vulnerability in the IEEE 802.11 dissector in Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.9 and 3.2.0 to 3.2.17, potentially leading to denial of service through packet injection or crafted capture files.
Understanding CVE-2021-39928
The vulnerability, assigned by GitLab, impacts Wireshark versions 3.4.0 to 3.4.9 and 3.2.0 to 3.2.17, posing a risk of denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2021-39928?
The CVE-2021-39928 vulnerability arises from a null pointer exception within the IEEE 802.11 dissector in Wireshark software.
The Impact of CVE-2021-39928
The vulnerability allows attackers to cause denial of service by exploiting packet injection or using specially crafted capture files.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-39928
The technical details shed light on the specifics of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
A null pointer dereference vulnerability occurs in Wireshark software, leading to a critical flaw.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects the following systems and versions:
- Vendor: Wireshark Foundation
- Product: Wireshark
- Affected Versions:
=3.4.0, <3.4.10
=3.2.0, <3.2.18
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploitation of this vulnerability can be achieved through packet injection or by using manipulated capture files.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-39928, immediate and long-term measures should be implemented.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant security patches promptly.
- Monitor and restrict network traffic to prevent unauthorized access.
- Review and validate network configurations regularly for vulnerabilities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing.
- Educate personnel on cybersecurity best practices and awareness.
- Implement access control measures and least privilege principles.
- Keep software and systems up to date with the latest security patches.
Patching and Updates
Regularly update Wireshark to versions 3.4.10 or later for the 3.4 branch and versions 3.2.18 or higher for the 3.2 branch to mitigate the vulnerability.