CVE-2018-12404 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A cached side channel attack vulnerability in Network Security Services (NSS) versions prior to NSS 3.41 could lead to the decryption of encrypted content. This CVE, also known as the Adaptive Chosen Ciphertext attack or Bleichenbacher attack, poses a significant security risk.

Understanding CVE-2018-12404

This CVE pertains to a cryptographic issue in NSS versions before 3.41, allowing for a specific type of attack during RSA encryption handshakes.

What is CVE-2018-12404?

Before version NSS 3.41, all NSS versions were vulnerable to a cached side channel attack that occurs during handshakes when RSA encryption is used. This attack, also known as the Adaptive Chosen Ciphertext attack or Bleichenbacher attack, has the potential to decrypt encrypted content.

The Impact of CVE-2018-12404

The vulnerability could result in the decryption of encrypted content, compromising the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-12404

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for a cached side channel attack during handshakes using RSA encryption, potentially leading to the decryption of encrypted content. It is a variant of the Adaptive Chosen Ciphertext attack (Bleichenbacher attack).

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Network Security Services (NSS)
Vendor: Mozilla
Versions Affected: All versions prior to NSS 3.41

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited during handshakes that involve RSA encryption, enabling attackers to decrypt encrypted data.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-12404, immediate steps and long-term security practices are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update NSS to version 3.41 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor vendor advisories and apply patches promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update cryptographic libraries and security software.
Implement strong encryption protocols and configurations.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Mozilla and other relevant vendors.