CVE-2023-0666 in Wireshark
Summary
by MITRE • 06/07/2023
Due to failure in validating the length provided by an attacker-crafted RTPS packet, Wireshark version 4.0.5 and prior, by default, is susceptible to a heap-based buffer overflow, and possibly code execution in the context of the process running Wireshark.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-0666 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw in Wireshark versions 4.0.5 and earlier, specifically within the Real-Time Transport Protocol Stream (RTPS) dissector module. This issue arises from insufficient validation of packet length parameters provided by maliciously crafted RTPS packets, creating a potential pathway for remote code execution when Wireshark processes such malformed data. The vulnerability stems from the dissector's failure to properly sanitize input lengths, allowing an attacker to manipulate packet structures that Wireshark interprets during network traffic analysis. The flaw exists in the application's handling of RTPS protocol data, which is commonly used for real-time data streaming in industrial control systems and automotive applications, making it particularly concerning for environments where such protocols are prevalent. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the heap-based nature of the specific flaw in this case indicates memory corruption in heap-allocated regions rather than stack memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can potentially enable remote code execution with the privileges of the user running Wireshark. When an attacker crafts a specially malformed RTPS packet and successfully triggers the vulnerable code path, the heap corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing for complete system compromise. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where network administrators regularly analyze traffic from untrusted sources or where Wireshark is used in automated monitoring systems. This vulnerability affects the core functionality of Wireshark's protocol analysis capabilities, as the RTPS dissector is invoked during packet processing regardless of whether the user explicitly requests RTPS analysis. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that Wireshark is often run with elevated privileges in network monitoring contexts, potentially providing attackers with elevated system access. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and script injection, as successful exploitation could lead to execution of arbitrary commands within the Wireshark process context, while T1203 covers social engineering through malicious network traffic analysis.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-0666 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Wireshark installations to version 4.0.6 or later, which includes the necessary input validation fixes. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious traffic, particularly in environments where Wireshark is used for network monitoring. The use of network access control lists and firewall rules to restrict RTPS traffic from untrusted sources can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also consider implementing network traffic monitoring solutions that can detect and block malformed RTPS packets before they reach Wireshark analysis systems. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be enforced to ensure all network analysis tools remain current with security fixes. System administrators should disable unnecessary protocol dissectors in Wireshark when possible, reducing the attack surface by limiting the number of vulnerable code paths that can be exploited. Additionally, implementing network intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on suspicious RTPS packet patterns can provide early warning of potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in network protocol analysis tools and demonstrates the critical need for robust memory safety practices in security applications that process untrusted network data.