CVE-2018-0495 : What You Need to Know

Libgcrypt before 1.7.10 and 1.8.x before 1.8.3 allows a memory-cache side-channel attack on ECDSA signatures, known as the Return Of the Hidden Number Problem (ROHNP).

Understanding CVE-2018-0495

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Libgcrypt versions prior to 1.7.10 and 1.8.x prior to 1.8.3, allowing a memory-cache side-channel attack on ECDSA signatures.

What is CVE-2018-0495?

The vulnerability in Libgcrypt before 1.7.10 and 1.8.x before 1.8.3 enables a memory-cache side-channel attack on ECDSA signatures, which can be mitigated by incorporating blinding during the signing process.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0495

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to perform a memory-cache side-channel attack on ECDSA signatures.
Known as the Return Of the Hidden Number Problem (ROHNP).
Access to the local machine or a virtual machine on the same physical host is required for an attacker to discover an ECDSA key.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0495

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Vulnerability Type: Memory-cache side-channel attack
Vulnerable Versions: Libgcrypt before 1.7.10 and 1.8.x before 1.8.3
Mitigation: Incorporating blinding during the signing process

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Libgcrypt before 1.7.10 and 1.8.x before 1.8.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability to conduct a memory-cache side-channel attack on ECDSA signatures.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2018-0495 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Libgcrypt to version 1.7.10 or 1.8.3 to address the vulnerability.
Implement blinding during the signing process to prevent memory-cache side-channel attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest secure versions.
Monitor for security advisories and patches from the vendor.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Libgcrypt to fix the vulnerability.