CVE-2017-6058 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-6058, a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in QEMU's NetRxPkt::ehdr_buf function. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw to trigger a denial-of-service condition.
QEMU, also known as Quick Emulator, experiences a buffer overflow vulnerability in the NetRxPkt::ehdr_buf function, specifically when the VLANSTRIP feature is activated on the vmxnet3 device. This flaw can be exploited remotely by attackers to trigger a denial-of-service condition, leading to a crash of the QEMU process.
Understanding CVE-2017-6058
This CVE entry describes a critical vulnerability in QEMU that can be exploited to cause a denial-of-service condition.
What is CVE-2017-6058?
CVE-2017-6058 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in QEMU's NetRxPkt::ehdr_buf function when the VLANSTRIP feature is enabled on the vmxnet3 device. Remote attackers can exploit this issue to crash the QEMU process.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6058
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to trigger a denial-of-service condition by causing an out-of-bounds access and crashing the QEMU process. This can lead to service disruption and potential system instability.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6058
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The buffer overflow occurs in the NetRxPkt::ehdr_buf function in the hw/net/net_rx_pkt.c file of QEMU. The issue arises when the VLANSTRIP feature is activated on the vmxnet3 device, enabling attackers to exploit the vulnerability remotely.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating VLAN stripping, which triggers the buffer overflow in the NetRxPkt::ehdr_buf function.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6058 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable the VLANSTRIP feature on the vmxnet3 device to prevent exploitation of the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unusual network activity that could indicate an attempted exploit.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update QEMU and apply patches to address known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by QEMU to fix the buffer overflow vulnerability.