CVE-2019-13629 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-13629, a vulnerability in MatrixSSL versions prior to 4.2.1 allowing attackers to compute private keys through ECDSA signature timing. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
MatrixSSL 4.2.1 and earlier versions contain a timing side channel vulnerability in ECDSA signature generation, allowing attackers to compute the private key used by measuring signing operation durations.
Understanding CVE-2019-13629
What is CVE-2019-13629?
In versions of MatrixSSL prior to 4.2.1, a vulnerability exists related to the timing of ECDSA signature generation. Attackers can exploit this flaw to determine the private key by measuring the duration of signing operations.
The Impact of CVE-2019-13629
This vulnerability enables both local and remote attackers to compute the private key used in ECDSA signature generation by exploiting timing side channels.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-13629
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises due to the leakage of the bit length of the scalar during scalar multiplication in the crypto/pubkey/ecc_math.c component of MatrixSSL.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: MatrixSSL
- Versions affected: Prior to 4.2.1
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the timing side channel vulnerability to measure the duration of signing operations and compute the private key used in ECDSA signature generation.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to MatrixSSL version 4.2.1 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unusual activities related to ECDSA signature generation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent timing side channel attacks.
- Regularly update and patch cryptographic libraries and components.
- Conduct security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.