Platform
linux
Component
mawk
Fixed in
1.3.4
CVE-2017-20229 describes a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability within the MAWK interpreter. This flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the system by providing specially crafted input that overwrites the stack. The vulnerability affects MAWK version 1.3.3-17 and prior. There is currently no official patch available to address this vulnerability.
CVE-2017-20229 affects MAWK versions 1.3.3-17 and prior, presenting a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability. This flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by exploiting inadequate boundary checks on user-supplied input. Malicious data can overflow the stack buffer, potentially overwriting critical data and allowing an attacker to control program execution. Given the CVSS score of 9.8, this vulnerability is considered critical, potentially leading to complete system compromise if successfully exploited. The absence of a fix further exacerbates the situation, necessitating careful assessment of affected systems and the implementation of alternative mitigation measures.
The CVE-2017-20229 vulnerability in MAWK can be exploited by crafting malicious inputs that trigger a stack buffer overflow. An attacker could send a specially designed input to MAWK that exceeds the stack buffer's capacity, overwriting critical memory regions. This could allow the attacker to control the program's execution flow and execute arbitrary code. Return-Oriented Programming (ROP) techniques could be employed to construct a chain of calls to existing functions in memory to achieve code execution, even in the absence of injected malicious code. Successful exploitation requires the attacker to have the ability to send inputs to MAWK, which could be possible through a network interface or configuration file.
Exploit Status
EPSS
0.07% (22% percentile)
CISA SSVC
Due to the lack of an official patch for CVE-2017-20229 in MAWK, mitigation focuses on risk reduction strategies. It is strongly recommended to avoid using MAWK 1.3.3-17 and earlier versions if possible. If upgrading is not feasible, implement strict input validation and sanitization to validate and cleanse any user-supplied data before processing it with MAWK. This includes limiting input lengths, validating data formats, and removing potentially harmful characters. Continuous system monitoring for suspicious activity is also crucial. Consider isolating the system utilizing MAWK on a segmented network to limit the impact of a potential exploitation. Implementing an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can aid in identifying and responding to exploitation attempts.
Update MAWK to a version later than 1.3.3-17. This may require updating the operating system or installing a patched version of MAWK from a trusted source.
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No, there is currently no official patch available for this vulnerability.
Implement strict input controls, monitor the system, and consider network isolation.
ROP is a technique that allows attackers to execute code using snippets of existing code in memory.
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk.
Monitor the system for unusual activity, such as unknown processes or suspicious network traffic.
CVSS Vector
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