CVE-2012-4298 in Wireshark
Summary
by MITRE
Integer signedness error in the vwr_read_rec_data_ethernet function in wiretap/vwr.c in the Ixia IxVeriWave file parser in Wireshark 1.8.x before 1.8.2 allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted packet-trace file that triggers a buffer overflow.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4298 represents a critical integer signedness error within the Ixia IxVeriWave file parser component of Wireshark version 1.8.x prior to 1.8.2. This flaw exists in the vwr_read_rec_data_ethernet function located in wiretap/vwr.c, which processes packet trace files from Ixia IxVeriWave devices. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of signed integer values during buffer size calculations, creating a condition where attacker-controlled data can cause unexpected behavior in memory allocation and data processing operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a maliciously crafted packet-trace file is processed by Wireshark, specifically when the application attempts to parse Ixia IxVeriWave formatted data. The integer signedness error manifests when the vwr_read_rec_data_ethernet function performs calculations that should result in positive buffer sizes but instead produce negative values due to improper signedness handling. This negative value propagation leads to a buffer overflow condition where the application attempts to allocate memory or write data to locations that exceed the intended buffer boundaries, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for network security professionals and organizations that rely on Wireshark for network analysis and troubleshooting. The remote code execution capability means that an attacker could potentially compromise systems running vulnerable versions of Wireshark simply by enticing a user to open a crafted packet trace file. This scenario aligns with attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for command and scripting interpreter, as the exploitation could lead to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of Wireshark's file parsing capabilities and represents a direct threat to the integrity of network analysis tools used by security professionals.
The underlying cause of this vulnerability maps to CWE-190, which describes integer overflow and underflow conditions, and more specifically to CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array index values. The flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow vulnerability that occurs when signed integer values are improperly handled in memory allocation calculations. Organizations should immediately update to Wireshark version 1.8.2 or later, which includes patches addressing this specific integer signedness error. Additionally, network administrators should implement strict file validation procedures and avoid opening packet trace files from untrusted sources. The remediation strategy should include regular security updates, network segmentation to limit exposure, and implementation of network monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management in network analysis tools, particularly those handling binary data formats from multiple vendors.