CVE-2023-0965 : What You Need to Know

This CVE-2023-0965 article provides detailed information about a vulnerability that affects Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK versions 4.2.1 and earlier, leading to key material duplication to RAM due to compiler removal of buffer clearing in the sli_cryptoacc_transparent_key_agreement function.

Understanding CVE-2023-0965

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-0965 and its implications for affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-0965?

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-0965 arises from the removal of buffer clearing in the sli_cryptoacc_transparent_key_agreement function within Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK versions 4.2.1 and earlier. This results in the duplication of key material to RAM, potentially exposing sensitive information to unauthorized access.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0965

The impact of CVE-2023-0965 is considered low severity with a CVSS base score of 3.1. Although the confidentiality impact is low, the attack complexity is high, highlighting the potential risks associated with this vulnerability.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0965

This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the compiler's removal of buffer clearing in the sli_cryptoacc_transparent_key_agreement function, allowing for key material duplication to RAM. This oversight can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in the affected systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK versions 4.2.1 and earlier are impacted by this vulnerability. Systems running these versions may be vulnerable to key material duplication, posing a security risk to the stored data.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers leveraging network-based attack vectors with low privileges required. By taking advantage of the buffer clearing issue, malicious actors could potentially access duplicated key material stored in RAM.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-0965, it is crucial to implement effective mitigation strategies and security practices to safeguard systems against potential exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Affected users should apply patches or updates provided by Silicon Labs to address the vulnerability promptly.
Implement access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect any unauthorized access to key material.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to ensure the latest security fixes are in place.
Conduct security audits and code reviews to identify and address similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Silicon Labs has released patches for the Gecko Platform SDK to address the key duplication vulnerability. Users are advised to update their systems to version 4.2.2 or later to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-0965.