CVE-2017-8301 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

LibreSSL versions 2.5.1 to 2.5.3 have a vulnerability related to TLS certificate verification, affecting nginx's ability to detect invalid certificates.

Understanding CVE-2017-8301

This CVE involves improper TLS certificate verification in LibreSSL versions 2.5.1 to 2.5.3, impacting SSL_get_verify_result function.

What is CVE-2017-8301?

LibreSSL 2.5.1 to 2.5.3 lacks proper TLS certificate verification when relying on SSL_get_verify_result function.
Vulnerability arises when a user's verification callback returns 1, leading to acceptance of invalid certificates by nginx.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8301

Vulnerability in TLS certificate verification process of LibreSSL versions 2.5.1 to 2.5.3.
Results in nginx being unable to identify and reject invalid certificates.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8301

This section provides detailed technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

TLS certificate verification issue in LibreSSL versions 2.5.1 to 2.5.3.
Specifically affects the SSL_get_verify_result function.

Affected Systems and Versions

LibreSSL versions 2.5.1 to 2.5.3 are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation occurs when a user's verification callback returns 1, allowing acceptance of invalid certificates by nginx.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protective measures and steps to mitigate the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update LibreSSL to a version that addresses the TLS certificate verification flaw.
Monitor and verify SSL/TLS certificate validation processes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update SSL/TLS implementation practices.
Conduct security audits to identify and rectify vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches or updates provided by LibreSSL to fix the TLS certificate verification issue.