CVE-2014-8768 in tcpdump
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple Integer underflows in the geonet_print function in tcpdump 4.5.0 through 4.6.2, when in verbose mode, allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service (segmentation fault and crash) via a crafted length value in a Geonet frame.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8768 represents a critical integer underflow flaw within the tcpdump network analysis tool version 4.5.0 through 4.6.2. This issue specifically affects the geonet_print function which processes GEONET frames, commonly used in automotive and industrial network communications. The vulnerability manifests when tcpdump operates in verbose mode, a feature typically employed by network administrators and security professionals for detailed packet analysis. The flaw occurs due to improper input validation of length fields within GEONET frames, creating a condition where maliciously crafted frame data can trigger unexpected behavior in the packet processing logic.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the manipulation of length values within GEONET frames to cause integer underflow conditions in the geonet_print function. When tcpdump processes a malformed GEONET frame with an intentionally crafted length field, the integer arithmetic operation results in an underflow condition that leads to improper memory handling. This underflow condition causes the application to attempt to access invalid memory locations or perform operations with incorrect buffer sizes, ultimately resulting in segmentation faults and application crashes. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-190 category of Integer Overflow or Wraparound, specifically manifesting as an underflow condition that demonstrates poor input validation and memory management practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can be exploited by remote attackers to disrupt network monitoring and analysis operations. Network administrators who rely on tcpdump for security monitoring and network troubleshooting could find their tools rendered unavailable through this attack vector. The vulnerability affects systems where tcpdump is actively monitoring networks for GEONET traffic, which includes automotive networks, industrial control systems, and other environments where GEONET protocols are implemented. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for network monitoring infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8768 primarily focus on immediate software updates and operational security measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to tcpdump versions 4.6.3 or later, where the integer underflow has been corrected through proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious GEONET frames, particularly in industrial environments where such protocols are prevalent. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1499.004 technique for Network Denial of Service, highlighting the importance of maintaining up-to-date network monitoring tools and implementing robust input validation practices across all network analysis applications. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and block malformed GEONET frames, providing an additional layer of defense against this specific attack vector while maintaining operational continuity.