CVE-2019-3836 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An uninitialized pointer access vulnerability was identified in gnutls versions 3.6.3 or later, prior to version 3.6.7 upstream. This vulnerability can be exploited through specific post-handshake messages.

Understanding CVE-2019-3836

This CVE involves an uninitialized pointer access vulnerability in gnutls versions 3.6.3 to 3.6.6, which could be triggered by certain post-handshake messages.

What is CVE-2019-3836?

CVE-2019-3836 is a security vulnerability in gnutls versions 3.6.3 to 3.6.6 that allows for uninitialized pointer access, potentially leading to security breaches.

The Impact of CVE-2019-3836

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.9, indicating a medium severity issue with high availability impact. It does not affect confidentiality or integrity but can lead to denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-3836

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

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in gnutls versions 3.6.3 to 3.6.6 involves uninitialized pointer access, which can be exploited through specific post-handshake messages.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: gnutls
Vendor: gnutls
Versions affected: 3.6.3 to 3.6.6
Fixed version: gnutls 3.6.7

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by sending specific post-handshake messages to the affected gnutls versions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-3836 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update gnutls to version 3.6.7 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual post-handshake messages that could potentially exploit the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running gnutls are updated to version 3.6.7 or above to patch the vulnerability.