CVE-2019-18222 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2019-18222, a critical vulnerability in Arm Mbed Crypto and Mbed TLS allowing local attackers to retrieve private keys. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
CVE-2019-18222 is a vulnerability in the ECDSA signature implementation in Arm Mbed Crypto 2.1 and Mbed TLS through 2.19.1. This flaw allows a local attacker to retrieve the private key through side-channel attacks.
Understanding CVE-2019-18222
This CVE identifies a critical security issue in the ECDSA signature implementation in specific versions of Arm Mbed Crypto and Mbed TLS.
What is CVE-2019-18222?
The ECDSA signature implementation in Arm Mbed Crypto 2.1 and Mbed TLS through 2.19.1 does not apply reduction to the blinded scalar before calculating the inverse. This oversight enables a local attacker to exploit side-channel attacks to retrieve the private key.
The Impact of CVE-2019-18222
The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized access to sensitive information, potentially compromising the security and integrity of cryptographic operations.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-18222
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in the ECDSA signature implementation in Arm Mbed Crypto and Mbed TLS versions allows a local attacker to recover the private key through side-channel attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Vendor: n/a
- Product: n/a
- Versions: Arm Mbed Crypto 2.1 and Mbed TLS through 2.19.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by a local attacker leveraging side-channel attacks to retrieve the private key.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-18222 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update to the latest patched versions of Arm Mbed Crypto and Mbed TLS to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Implement strict access controls to limit exposure to potential attackers.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit cryptographic operations for any anomalies or unauthorized access attempts.
- Educate personnel on secure coding practices and the importance of cryptographic key protection.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Arm Mbed Crypto and Mbed TLS to apply patches promptly.