CVE-2018-7330 in Wireshark
Summary
by MITRE
In Wireshark 2.4.0 to 2.4.4 and 2.2.0 to 2.2.12, epan/dissectors/packet-thread.c had an infinite loop that was addressed by using a correct integer data type.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7330 represents a critical denial of service flaw discovered in Wireshark network protocol analyzer versions 2.4.0 through 2.4.4 and 2.2.0 through 2.2.12. This issue stems from a fundamental programming error in the thread dissector component that processes network traffic data. The flaw exists within the epan/dissectors/packet-thread.c source file where an improper integer data type was utilized, creating conditions that could lead to indefinite loop execution during packet analysis operations. The vulnerability manifests when Wireshark processes specially crafted network packets that trigger the flawed logic path, causing the application to enter an infinite loop state where it continuously executes the same code segment without making progress.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-128, which addresses "Unsigned to Signed Integer Conversion Error" and CWE-682, which covers "Incorrect Calculation." The improper use of integer data types in the thread dissector creates a scenario where signed and unsigned integer operations produce unexpected results, particularly when handling packet data structures that contain thread-related information. This error condition causes the loop control variables to never reach their termination conditions, effectively halting the application's ability to process subsequent packets or complete normal operations. The flaw specifically impacts the packet dissection engine's thread handling functionality, where the application attempts to parse thread-specific data within network protocols, leading to a complete denial of service condition for the Wireshark application.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-7330 extends beyond simple application hanging, as it creates a persistent denial of service condition that affects network analysis capabilities for security professionals and network administrators. When an attacker or malicious user can trigger this vulnerability through crafted network traffic, the affected Wireshark instance becomes unresponsive and requires manual intervention to restore normal operation. This vulnerability particularly affects network forensics operations, security monitoring, and incident response activities where Wireshark serves as a critical diagnostic tool. The infinite loop condition prevents the application from processing additional packets, effectively rendering the network analysis tool unusable until the process is terminated and restarted, potentially causing significant delays in security operations and network troubleshooting activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7330 focus on immediate software updates to patched versions of Wireshark where the integer data type issue has been corrected. Users should upgrade to Wireshark versions 2.4.5 or 2.2.13, which contain the necessary code modifications to address the improper integer handling in the thread dissector component. System administrators should implement network monitoring to detect unusual packet patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while also ensuring that Wireshark installations are regularly updated through proper patch management procedures. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper integer type management in security-critical applications and highlights the need for thorough code reviews and testing of protocol dissectors to prevent similar issues. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious network traffic that could trigger such vulnerabilities during routine network monitoring activities.