CVE-2017-11671 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-11671, a vulnerability in GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) versions 4.6 to 6.3 that could reduce randomness in random number generation. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
A vulnerability in the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) versions 4.6 to 6.3 could lead to a decrease in randomness during random number generation.
Understanding CVE-2017-11671
What is CVE-2017-11671?
The ix86_expand_builtin function in GCC versions 4.6 to 6.3 might generate instruction sequences that overwrite the status flag of certain intrinsics, potentially causing failures in instruction execution without detection.
The Impact of CVE-2017-11671
This vulnerability could result in a reduction of randomness during random number generation, impacting the security of cryptographic operations and other systems relying on random number generation.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-11671
Vulnerability Description
Under specific conditions, GCC versions 4.6 to 6.3 may generate instruction sequences that interfere with the status flag of certain intrinsics, leading to undetected failures in instruction execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
- GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) versions 4.6 to 6.3
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability occurs when the ix86_expand_builtin function generates instruction sequences that overwrite the status flag of the RDRAND and RDSEED intrinsics before they are read, potentially causing failures in instruction execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update GCC to versions 5.5 or 6.4 to mitigate the vulnerability
- Monitor vendor advisories for patches and updates
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and compilers to the latest versions
- Implement secure coding practices to minimize the impact of potential vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by GCC to address the vulnerability