CVE-2018-5383 : Security Advisory and Response

Bluetooth implementations may not sufficiently validate elliptic curve parameters during Diffie-Hellman key exchange.

Understanding CVE-2018-5383

In earlier versions of macOS, iOS, and Android, a vulnerability exists in the Bluetooth firmware or operating system software drivers due to inadequate validation of elliptic curve parameters during a Diffie-Hellman key exchange.

What is CVE-2018-5383?

This CVE refers to a security issue in macOS (before 10.13 High Sierra), iOS (before 11.4), and Android (before the 2018-06-05 patch) that could allow a remote attacker to obtain the encryption key used by the targeted device.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5383

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8 (High severity) with high impacts on confidentiality and integrity. It requires no user interaction and has a changed scope.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5383

Vulnerability Description

Inadequate validation of elliptic curve parameters during a Diffie-Hellman key exchange

Affected Systems and Versions

macOS versions before 10.13 High Sierra
iOS versions before 11.4
Android versions before the 2018-06-05 patch level

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability to acquire the encryption key used by the targeted device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected systems to the latest versions
Disable Bluetooth when not in use
Be cautious of untrusted Bluetooth connections

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all software and firmware
Implement network segmentation and access controls

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Apple and Android Open Source Project