CVE-2017-3898 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2017-3898, a Code Injection vulnerability, affects McAfee LiveSafe versions prior to 16.0.3. Attackers can exploit this flaw in the non-certificate-based authentication mechanism to tamper with the Windows registry value, potentially leading to a man-in-the-middle attack.

Understanding CVE-2017-3898

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in McAfee LiveSafe that allows network attackers to manipulate the Windows registry value associated with McAfee updates.

What is CVE-2017-3898?

This vulnerability in McAfee LiveSafe versions before 16.0.3 enables attackers to modify the Windows registry value through the HTTP backend-response method, posing a risk of a man-in-the-middle attack.

The Impact of CVE-2017-3898

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability to tamper with the Windows registry value linked to McAfee updates.
This manipulation can be done through the HTTP backend-response method, potentially leading to a man-in-the-middle attack.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-3898

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

A Code Injection vulnerability in the non-certificate-based authentication mechanism of McAfee LiveSafe versions prior to 16.0.3 allows attackers to modify the Windows registry value associated with McAfee updates via HTTP backend-response.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: McAfee LiveSafe
Vendor: McAfee
Affected Version: 16.0.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the non-certificate-based authentication mechanism in older McAfee LiveSafe versions to tamper with the Windows registry value using the HTTP backend-response method.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-3898 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update McAfee LiveSafe to version 16.0.3 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities that could indicate an ongoing attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong network security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly update security software and patches to address known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by McAfee promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.