CVE-2018-16301 in libpcap
Summary
by MITRE
libpcap before 1.9.1, as used in tcpdump before 4.9.3, has a buffer overflow and/or over-read because of errors in pcapng reading.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16301 represents a critical buffer overflow and over-read condition within libpcap version 1.9.0 and earlier, which is widely utilized by tcpdump and other network analysis tools. This flaw specifically manifests during the processing of pcapng (Packet Capture Next Generation) formatted files, creating a dangerous scenario where maliciously crafted packet capture files could trigger arbitrary code execution or system instability. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper memory handling when parsing the structured data within pcapng file formats, particularly affecting how the software processes various block types and their associated metadata.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of variable-length data structures within the pcapng format specification. When libpcap attempts to read pcapng files, it fails to properly validate the length fields associated with different block types, allowing attackers to craft malformed files that cause the software to read beyond allocated memory boundaries or write beyond intended buffer limits. This memory corruption occurs primarily during the parsing of section header blocks, interface description blocks, and packet blocks, where the software does not adequately check the integrity of length fields before proceeding with memory allocation or data copying operations. The flaw is categorized under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow and CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read, both of which are fundamental memory safety issues that can lead to remote code execution or denial of service conditions.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-16301 extends beyond simple network analysis tools to encompass a wide range of security infrastructure components that rely on libpcap for packet capture and analysis. Systems running vulnerable versions of tcpdump, Wireshark, or any application that uses libpcap for file processing become susceptible to attacks where an attacker can craft malicious pcapng files to compromise system integrity. This vulnerability particularly affects network monitoring systems, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management platforms that process packet captures from various sources. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that many automated systems regularly process packet capture files from network devices, security appliances, or user submissions, making these systems prime targets for exploitation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for execution through command-line interfaces and T1078 for valid accounts, as exploitation typically involves legitimate network analysis tools that are part of standard security operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-16301 require immediate patching of affected systems to upgrade to libpcap version 1.9.1 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and input validation for pcapng file processing. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems to untrusted packet capture files, particularly in environments where automated processing of network data occurs. Additionally, security teams should employ network monitoring to detect unusual patterns in packet capture file processing and consider implementing sandboxing techniques for any automated analysis of potentially malicious packet capture data. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of memory safety in network security tools, as these applications often process untrusted data from network traffic and must maintain robust defenses against malformed input. Regular vulnerability assessments and security updates should be prioritized for all network analysis tools that rely on libpcap, particularly in environments where packet capture processing is automated or receives inputs from external sources. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls to prevent unauthorized systems from submitting packet capture files that could trigger this vulnerability during automated processing operations.