CVE-2022-45146 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A critical vulnerability was discovered in the FIPS Java API of Bouncy Castle BC-FJA before version 1.0.2.4, impacting Java 13 and later versions. This vulnerability could lead to errors or potential information loss due to zeroing out temporary keys while still in use.

Understanding CVE-2022-45146

This section will cover the details of CVE-2022-45146, including its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2022-45146?

The issue in the FIPS Java API of Bouncy Castle BC-FJA before version 1.0.2.4 allows temporary keys to be zeroed out while in use, potentially leading to errors or information loss when triggered by changes in the JVM garbage collector in Java 13 and later.

The Impact of CVE-2022-45146

This vulnerability poses a risk of errors or information loss for systems utilizing the affected versions of BC-FJA. FIPS compliant users remain unaffected as the FIPS certification only covers Java 7, 8, and 11.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-45146

Let's delve into the specific technical aspects of CVE-2022-45146 to better understand the nature of this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from changes in the JVM garbage collector in Java 13 and later, causing temporary keys in BC-FJA to be zeroed out while in use by the module, potentially resulting in errors or information loss.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue impacts versions of Bouncy Castle BC-FJA prior to 1.0.2.4 running on Java 13 and later versions. Systems using these configurations are vulnerable to the described zeroing out of temporary keys.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves triggering the issue by utilizing the affected versions of Bouncy Castle BC-FJA on Java 13 and later, leading to potential errors or information loss.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-45146 and enhance the security of affected systems, immediate steps should be taken alongside implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update to version 1.0.2.4 or later of Bouncy Castle BC-FJA and consider recommendations provided by the official vendor to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to applying patches and updates promptly, organizations should follow security best practices such as regular security audits, monitoring, and employing secure coding standards to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor for security advisories from Bouncy Castle BC-FJA and promptly apply patches and updates to ensure the protection of systems from known vulnerabilities.