CVE-2023-34101 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Contiki-NG is an operating system for internet of things devices. In version 4.8 and prior, a vulnerability exists that allows an out-of-bounds read when processing ICMP DAO input.

Understanding CVE-2023-34101

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-34101, highlighting the vulnerability in Contiki-NG versions prior to 4.8.

What is CVE-2023-34101?

Contiki-NG, an OS for IoT devices, lacks proper validation in processing ICMP DAO packets, leading to an out-of-bounds read vulnerability. Attackers can exploit this to read up to 16 bytes out of bounds.

The Impact of CVE-2023-34101

The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it allows malicious actors to manipulate ICMP packets, potentially leading to unauthorized access or compromise of sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-34101

This section outlines the technical aspects of CVE-2023-34101, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Contiki-NG versions <= 4.8 arises from insufficient validation of packet buffer sizes when processing ICMP DAO packets in the

dao_input_storing

function. This oversight allows attackers to trigger an out-of-bounds read, compromising system integrity.

Affected Systems and Versions

Contiki-NG versions up to 4.8 are affected by this vulnerability. The 'develop' branch contains the patch, with an upcoming release in version 4.9 expected to address the issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

By crafting a malicious ICMP packet with insufficient data, threat actors can induce an out-of-bounds read in the

dao_input_storing

function, exploiting the inherent flaw in Contiki-NG.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-34101, immediate actions must be taken, along with the adoption of long-term security practices and diligent patching procedures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to implement the available patch from the 'develop' branch or apply the changes outlined in Contiki-NG pull request #2435 to secure their systems against potential exploits.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enhancing network security, enforcing proper data validation, and regularly updating software components are essential long-term measures to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about Contiki-NG's release updates and promptly apply patches to ensure your systems are safeguarded against known vulnerabilities.