CVE-2016-6559

The BSD libc library's link_ntoa() function may be vulnerable to a classic buffer overflow

Published Jul 13, 2018 CVSS 3.0 · 9.8 Critical EPSS 3.7% KEV · Not listed
Description
Improper bounds checking of the obuf variable in the link_ntoa() function in linkaddr.c of the BSD libc library may allow an attacker to read or write from memory. The full impact and severity depends on the method of exploit and how the library is used by applications. According to analysis by FreeBSD developers, it is very unlikely that applications exist that utilize link_ntoa() in an exploitable manner, and the CERT/CC is not aware of any proof of concept. A blog post describes the functionality of link_ntoa() and points out that none of the base utilities use this function in an exploitable manner. For more information, please see FreeBSD Security Advisory SA-16:37.

Remediation

No solution or workaround provided in the CVE record

Tracking

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Advisories

Source ID Title
EUVD EUVD EUVD-2016-7480 Improper bounds checking of the obuf variable in the link_ntoa() function in linkaddr.c of the BSD libc library may allow an attacker to read or write from memory. The full impact and severity depends on the method of exploit and how the library is used by applications. According to analysis by FreeBSD developers, it is very unlikely that applications exist that utilize link_ntoa() in an exploitable manner, and the CERT/CC is not aware of any proof of concept. A blog post describes the functionality of link_ntoa() and points out that none of the base utilities use this function in an exploitable manner. For more information, please see FreeBSD Security Advisory SA-16:37.
History

No history.

Weaknesses

Sources

Status
PUBLISHED
Assigner
certcc
Published
Updated
Aug 6, 2024, 1:36 AM
Reserved
Aug 3, 2016, 12:00 AM
Status
Modified
Published
Jul 13, 2018, 8:29 PM
Modified
Jun 17, 2026, 12:51 AM