CVE-2022-24805: Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in net-snmp Prior to Version 5.9.2

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_Overview:_

net-snmp is a suite of software applications that offer various tools and insight related to the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). A critical vulnerability has been found in net-snmpversions earlier than 5.9.2, specifically in their handling of the INDEX of NET-SNMP-VACM-MIB. This vulnerability, classified as CVE-2022-24805, can potentially lead to a buffer overflow, resulting in unauthorized out-of-bounds memory access. Attackers with read-only credentials can exploit this vulnerability, which has been patched in version 5.9.2.

_Vulnerability Details:_

This vulnerability arises due to improper handling of the INDEX of the NET-SNMP-VACM-MIB. When an attacker sends a specifically crafted SNMP packet that exploits this flaw, an out-of-bounds memory access could occur, potentially leading to a buffer overflow.

A code snippet demonstrating the vulnerability

    // Malicious SNMP packet formation
    struct {
        ...
        char oid[100];
    } malicious_packet;
    
    strcpy(malicious_packet.oid, "NET-SNMP-VACM-MIB");
    ...

An attacker with read-only credentials can potentially exploit this, meaning that the risk posed is not restricted to higher-privilege users only.

_Original References:_

- CVE-2022-24805 - Official CVE listing
- net-snmp GitHub Repository - Source code and documentation for the net-snmp project
- net-snmp Version 5.9.2 Release Notes - Details on the version release, including the patch for this vulnerability

_Mitigation and Recommendations:_

To protect against this vulnerability affecting your system, you should update to net-snmp version 5.9.2 or later. This version contains a patch that resolves the issue.

In addition to updating, consider implementing the following security recommendations

1. Use strong SNMPv3 credentials: Ensure the usage of secure authentication (based on SHA-1 or SHA-2) and encryption mechanisms (AES-128 or stronger) provided by SNMPv3.

2. Restrict access to read-only credentials: Limit the number of users who have read-only access to your SNMP system, and ensure that they are trusted individuals.

3. Complex community strings: If you must use SNMPv1 or SNMPv2c, use a complex community string, i.e., a long combination of upper and lower case alphanumeric characters and special characters.

4. Limit IP address range: Further enhance the security of SNMPv1 and SNMPv2c by restricting access to a specific IP address range, making it more difficult for potential attackers to gain unauthorized access.

In summary, it is highly advised to immediately update to net-snmp version 5.9.2 or later and follow the recommended best practices to safeguard against vulnerabilities like CVE-2022-24805. Constantly reviewing security measures and updating software are essential in maintaining a secure network environment.

Timeline

Published on: 04/16/2024 20:15:07 UTC