CVE-2020-1968 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2020-1968, also known as the Raccoon attack, affects OpenSSL 1.0.2 versions and exploits a TLS specification flaw. This vulnerability allows attackers to compute the pre-master secret in certain connections, potentially leading to eavesdropping on encrypted communications.

Understanding CVE-2020-1968

The Raccoon attack in OpenSSL impacts specific versions due to a flaw in the TLS specification.

What is CVE-2020-1968?

The Raccoon attack targets the Diffie-Hellman based ciphersuites in OpenSSL 1.0.2, enabling attackers to eavesdrop on TLS connections.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1968

This vulnerability allows malicious actors to compromise the confidentiality of encrypted communications over affected TLS connections, posing a severe security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1968

The technical aspects of the Raccoon attack in OpenSSL 1.0.2.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the TLS specification allows attackers to compute the pre-master secret, compromising the security of encrypted communications.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: OpenSSL
Product: OpenSSL
Affected Versions: Fixed in OpenSSL 1.0.2w (Affected versions 1.0.2-1.0.2v)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the reuse of DH secrets across multiple TLS connections to eavesdrop on encrypted communications.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigation strategies and preventive measures against the Raccoon attack.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade OpenSSL to version 1.0.2w or higher to prevent exploitation.
Implement ECDH ciphersuites instead of DH ciphersuites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update cryptographic libraries and TLS configurations.
Monitor for abnormal behavior indicating potential eavesdropping activities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by OpenSSL promptly to address this vulnerability and enhance overall security measures.