CVE-2020-25276 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

PrimeKey EJBCA versions 6.x and 7.x before 7.4.1 are vulnerable to a security issue where no revocation check is performed on client certificates used for enrollment over the EST protocol.

Understanding CVE-2020-25276

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in PrimeKey EJBCA versions 6.x and 7.x before 7.4.1 related to the lack of revocation checks on client certificates used for enrollment over the EST protocol.

What is CVE-2020-25276?

This vulnerability allows systems with EST configured, using client certificates for enrollment authentication, and having revoked certificates to be affected. The issue arises when a revoked client certificate, belonging to a role authorized to enroll new end entities, is not properly checked during enrollment.

The Impact of CVE-2020-25276

The vulnerability poses a risk to the integrity and security of systems utilizing PrimeKey EJBCA versions 6.x and 7.x before 7.4.1, potentially allowing unauthorized entities to enroll new end entities without proper validation.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-25276

PrimeKey EJBCA versions 6.x and 7.x before 7.4.1 are susceptible to the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

Lack of revocation check on client certificates used for enrollment over the EST protocol

Affected Systems and Versions

PrimeKey EJBCA 6.x and 7.x before 7.4.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Systems with EST configured
Usage of client certificates for enrollment authentication
Presence of revoked client certificates belonging to authorized roles

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-25276, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Remove any revoked client certificates from their respective roles

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update certificate revocation lists
Implement strict certificate management policies

Patching and Updates

Upgrade PrimeKey EJBCA to version 7.4.1 or later to mitigate this vulnerability effectively