CVE-2017-12465 in CCN-lite
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in CCN-lite before 2.00 allow context-dependent attackers to have unspecified impact via vectors involving the (1) vallen variable in the iottlv_parse_sequence function or (2) typ, vallen and i variables in the localrpc_parse function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12465 affects CCN-lite versions prior to 2.00 and represents a critical security flaw stemming from multiple integer overflow conditions within the software's packet parsing mechanisms. This vulnerability resides in the core networking functionality of CCN-lite, which is designed for content-centric networking implementations and operates as a lightweight middleware for content distribution. The integer overflows occur during the parsing of network packets, specifically within two distinct functions that handle different aspects of data processing. The first overflow condition manifests in the iottlv_parse_sequence function where the vallen variable becomes susceptible to integer overflow, while the second involves the localrpc_parse function where multiple variables including typ, vallen, and i are all vulnerable to similar overflow conditions.
These integer overflow vulnerabilities create a significant attack surface that can be exploited by context-dependent adversaries who possess the ability to craft malicious network packets or manipulate data streams directed toward the vulnerable CCN-lite implementation. The nature of these overflows means that attackers can potentially cause memory corruption through controlled input data that exceeds the expected integer limits. When integer overflows occur in parsing functions, they typically result in unexpected behavior where arithmetic operations produce values that exceed the maximum representable integer, leading to wraparound effects that can be leveraged for memory corruption or arbitrary code execution. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description reflects the potential for various malicious outcomes including denial of service, information disclosure, or privilege escalation depending on the specific execution context and memory layout.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12465 extends beyond simple system instability, as CCN-lite serves as a foundational component in content-centric networking environments where it handles critical data routing and content delivery functions. Systems utilizing vulnerable versions of CCN-lite may experience unexpected crashes, data corruption, or potential remote code execution if attackers can successfully exploit these integer overflows. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where CCN-lite operates as a server component or in network infrastructure where it processes untrusted data from external sources. From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-190 which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities. The attack patterns associated with such vulnerabilities often map to ATT&CK technique T1059 where adversaries may attempt to execute malicious code through buffer overflow conditions, though in this case the overflow occurs in parsing rather than buffer management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12465 primarily focus on upgrading to CCN-lite version 2.00 or later where the integer overflow conditions have been addressed through proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all instances of CCN-lite are updated to secure versions, particularly in production environments where the software handles sensitive content or operates as a network service. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation to limit exposure of vulnerable CCN-lite instances, deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for anomalous packet patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and conducting thorough security assessments of systems that utilize CCN-lite to identify any potential exploitation vectors. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of robust input validation practices in network protocol implementations and serves as a reminder of the critical need for thorough code reviews and security testing of parsing functions that handle external data inputs.