CVE-2016-4954

What it is

The process_packet function in ntp_proto.c in ntpd in NTP 4.x before 4.2.8p8 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (peer-variable modification) by sending spoofed packets from many source IP addresses in a certain scenario, as demonstrated by triggering an incorrect leap indication.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in. High risk of service disruption.

Exploit odds

13.3% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS). Higher than most.

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2016-07-05 01:59 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 00:48 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 13.3% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 7.5 HIGH (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2016-07-05 01:59 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 00:48 UTC

Exploit probability

13.3% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-362 · Race condition

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Ntp < 4.2.8
• Ntp < 4.3.93
• Ntp 4.2.8
• Oracle Solaris 10
• Oracle Solaris 11.3
• Suse Manager 2.1
• Suse Manager Proxy 2.1
• Suse Openstack Cloud 5

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 7.5

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

None

Integrity

None

Availability

High

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2016-4954.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2016-4954. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

Copy as ticket · More options · Status badge