CVE-2023-4512 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE record involves an issue of Uncontrolled Recursion in Wireshark, affecting versions 4.0.0 to 4.0.6, potentially leading to a denial of service through packet injection or crafted capture files.

Understanding CVE-2023-4512

Wireshark 4.0.0 to 4.0.6 is susceptible to an uncontrolled recursion vulnerability, marked as CVE-2023-4512, which can be exploited for a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2023-4512?

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-4512 in Wireshark versions 4.0.0 to 4.0.6 relates to uncontrolled recursion within the CBOR dissector, enabling attackers to disrupt the service by injecting packets or using maliciously crafted capture files.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4512

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized as medium with a base score of 5.3. Attackers with local access could potentially exploit this issue, causing a disruption in availability, confidentiality, and integrity of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4512

The vulnerability arises from an uncontrolled recursion flaw within the CBOR dissector in Wireshark versions 4.0.0 to 4.0.6, allowing for denial of service attacks through packet injection or crafted capture files.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from a lack of proper input validation within the CBOR dissector, leading to uncontrolled recursive calls that can overload the system and cause a crash, resulting in a denial of service condition.

Affected Systems and Versions

Wireshark versions 4.0.0 to 4.0.6 are impacted by this vulnerability, with a version less than 4.0.8 being susceptible. Systems running these specific versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending maliciously crafted CBOR data packets or capture files to a vulnerable Wireshark instance, threat actors can trigger the uncontrolled recursion flaw, potentially leading to a system crash or service disruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-4512 and mitigate the associated risks, users and administrators are advised to take the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Wireshark to version 4.0.8 or above to eliminate the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation.
Exercise caution when processing unknown CBOR data packets or capture files to avoid triggering the uncontrolled recursion flaw.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches to ensure systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks targeting Wireshark instances.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Wireshark Foundation and promptly apply recommended patches and updates to address any identified vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of the system.