CVE-2022-42905 : What You Need to Know
Discover the impact of CVE-2022-42905, a buffer over-read vulnerability in wolfSSL before 5.5.2 that allows malicious actors to trigger a 5-byte heap-based read overflow, potentially leading to code execution or denial of service.
In wolfSSL before 5.5.2, enabling callback functions can lead to a buffer over-read vulnerability that can be exploited by a malicious TLS 1.3 client or network attacker.
Understanding CVE-2022-42905
This section provides insights into the nature and impact of CVE-2022-42905.
What is CVE-2022-42905?
The vulnerability in wolfSSL before version 5.5.2 allows a potential attacker to trigger a 5-byte buffer over-read on the heap by leveraging callback functions enabled through the WOLFSSL_CALLBACKS flag. It's crucial to note that WOLFSSL_CALLBACKS are primarily intended for debugging purposes and not for production environments.
The Impact of CVE-2022-42905
By exploiting this vulnerability, a malicious actor can execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition, potentially compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-42905
Delve into the specifics of the vulnerability, including affected systems, exploitation methods, and more.
Vulnerability Description
The buffer over-read vulnerability arises when callback functions are enabled in wolfSSL before version 5.5.2, presenting an opportunity for attackers to trigger this issue.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability impacts all versions of wolfSSL that precede version 5.5.2, making them susceptible to exploitation if callback functions are enabled.
Exploitation Mechanism
Malicious TLS 1.3 clients or network attackers can exploit the buffer over-read vulnerability by triggering heap-based over-reads on 5 bytes, potentially leading to unauthorized access or system instability.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-42905 and safeguard your systems.
Immediate Steps to Take
To mitigate the impact of CVE-2022-42905, users are advised to update wolfSSL to version 5.5.2 or later, ensuring that callback functions are utilized only for debugging purposes and not in production environments.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement secure coding practices, conduct regular security audits, and stay updated on vulnerability disclosures to enhance the overall security posture of your systems.
Patching and Updates
Stay proactive by applying security patches, monitoring vendor announcements, and promptly addressing any security advisories related to wolfSSL to prevent potential exploitation of known vulnerabilities.