CVE-2021-23451 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-23451, a vulnerability in the package otp-generator that allows for insecure randomness, potentially leading to brute-force attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-23451

CVE-2021-23451 is a security vulnerability in the otp-generator package that stems from insecure generation of random one-time passwords, making it susceptible to brute-force attacks.

What is CVE-2021-23451?

The package otp-generator versions before 3.0.0 are affected by an insecure randomness issue, allowing attackers to potentially brute-force one-time passwords due to the flawed random password generation mechanism.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23451

With a CVSS base score of 6.5, the vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with low confidentiality and integrity impacts. While no direct privileges are required, the attack vector is network-based, making it a notable threat.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23451

Here are the key technical details of CVE-2021-23451:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the insecure generation of random one-time passwords in otp-generator versions prior to 3.0.0, potentially enabling malicious actors to initiate brute-force attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects otp-generator versions less than 3.0.0, with custom versions falling under this range and being exposed to the insecure randomness issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2021-23451 involves leveraging the insecure random password generation method in otp-generator to carry out a brute-force attack, aiming to compromise one-time passwords.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent CVE-2021-23451 is crucial for maintaining robust security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Developers and users can take the following immediate steps to address the CVE-2021-23451 vulnerability:

Update otp-generator to version 3.0.0 or above to patch the insecure randomness issue.
Monitor for any suspicious activity or brute-force attempts on OTPs.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance long-term security, consider the following practices:

Regularly update software components and libraries to ensure the latest security patches are applied.
Conduct security audits and code reviews to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Ensuring timely patching and updates for otp-generator is essential to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-23451. Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches promptly to protect against potential threats.