CVE-2020-15309 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

An issue was discovered in wolfSSL before 4.5.0, allowing local attackers to conduct a cache-timing attack against public key operations, potentially exposing sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2020-15309

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in wolfSSL that could be exploited by local attackers to perform cache-timing attacks.

What is CVE-2020-15309?

The vulnerability in wolfSSL before version 4.5.0 enables local attackers to exploit cache-timing attacks on public key operations, potentially compromising sensitive data if the system has been used for private key operations.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15309

The vulnerability poses a risk of exposing sensitive information, especially if the affected system has been utilized for private key operations, such as signing with a private key.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15309

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in wolfSSL before 4.5.0 allows local attackers to conduct cache-timing attacks against public key operations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: wolfSSL
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: All versions before 4.5.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Local attackers can exploit the lack of single precision in wolfSSL before version 4.5.0 to perform cache-timing attacks on public key operations.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-15309, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update wolfSSL to version 4.5.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to systems running vulnerable versions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Regularly update and patch software to address security flaws.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely patching and updates for wolfSSL to protect against known vulnerabilities.