CVE-2023-42366 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A heap-buffer-overflow vulnerability has been identified in BusyBox v.1.36.1 that affects the next_token function at awk.c:1159.

Understanding CVE-2023-42366

This section will delve into the details of the CVE-2023-42366 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-42366?

The CVE-2023-42366 is a heap-buffer-overflow vulnerability found in BusyBox v.1.36.1, specifically impacting the next_token function located at awk.c:1159.

The Impact of CVE-2023-42366

The vulnerability allows for potential exploitation by attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-42366

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-42366 in more depth.

Vulnerability Description

The heap-buffer-overflow in BusyBox v.1.36.1 at awk.c:1159 can lead to a buffer overrun, enabling attackers to overwrite adjacent memory areas.

Affected Systems and Versions

As per the CVE report, the vulnerability affects all versions of BusyBox v.1.36.1.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting specific input that triggers the overflow condition in the next_token function of BusyBox v.1.36.1.

Mitigation and Prevention

Outlined below are steps to mitigate and prevent potential exploitation of CVE-2023-42366.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update BusyBox to a non-vulnerable version, whenever available.
Implement network controls to minimize exposure to the vulnerable component.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security mailing lists for updates on patches and security advisories.
Conduct routine security assessments to identify vulnerabilities in the environment.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches released by BusyBox promptly to address the CVE-2023-42366 vulnerability.