CVE-2019-9494 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

SAE implementations in hostapd and wpa_supplicant have been found to have security weaknesses due to observable timing discrepancies and cache access patterns, potentially allowing attackers to obtain leaked information through side channel attacks.

Understanding CVE-2019-9494

Both hostapd with SAE support and wpa_supplicant with SAE support, including version 2.7 and below, are impacted by vulnerabilities related to side-channel attacks.

What is CVE-2019-9494?

The implementations of SAE in hostapd and wpa_supplicant are vulnerable to side-channel attacks due to timing differences and cache access patterns. Attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to recover passwords.

The Impact of CVE-2019-9494

Security weaknesses in SAE implementations in hostapd and wpa_supplicant
Potential leakage of information through side-channel attacks
Risk of complete password recovery by attackers

Technical Details of CVE-2019-9494

SAE implementations in hostapd and wpa_supplicant are susceptible to side-channel attacks due to observable timing discrepancies and cache access patterns.

Vulnerability Description

Observable timing discrepancies and cache access patterns
Leaked information through side-channel attacks
Complete password recovery potential

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: hostapd with SAE support
Vendor: Wi-Fi Alliance
Versions affected: <= 2.7
Product: wpa_supplicant with SAE support
Vendor: Wi-Fi Alliance
Versions affected: <= 2.7

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit timing differences and cache access patterns
Gain leaked information through side-channel attacks
Utilize the leaked data for complete password recovery

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps and implement long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2019-9494.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update hostapd and wpa_supplicant to versions above 2.7
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities
Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to patch vulnerabilities
Conduct security audits and penetration testing
Educate users and employees on cybersecurity best practices

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Wi-Fi Alliance for hostapd and wpa_supplicant
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from relevant vendors