CVE-2023-26084 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-26084 was published by MITRE on March 15, 2023. It involves a vulnerability in the armv8_dec_aes_gcm_full() API of Arm AArch64cryptolib, which fails to verify the authentication tag of AES-GCM protected data, potentially leading to a man-in-the-middle attack due to an improperly initialized variable.

Understanding CVE-2023-26084

This section will delve into the details of the CVE-2023-26084 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-26084?

The CVE-2023-26084 vulnerability is specifically related to the armv8_dec_aes_gcm_full() API of Arm AArch64cryptolib, where the failure to verify the authentication tag of AES-GCM protected data can enable a potential man-in-the-middle attack. This security flaw arises from an inadequately initialized variable within the system.

The Impact of CVE-2023-26084

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it exposes systems utilizing the affected API to the risk of unauthorized access and manipulation of sensitive data. A successful exploitation could lead to severe security breaches and compromise the confidentiality and integrity of the information stored within the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-26084

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-26084.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the armv8_dec_aes_gcm_full() API of Arm AArch64cryptolib stems from the failure to properly verify the authentication tag of AES-GCM protected data. This oversight creates an opening for malicious actors to execute man-in-the-middle attacks, intercepting and potentially altering the transmitted data.

Affected Systems and Versions

The CVE-2023-26084 vulnerability affects systems utilizing Arm AArch64cryptolib before version 86065c6. Any systems running on affected versions are susceptible to the exploitation of this security flaw.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-26084 involves leveraging the improperly initialized variable within the armv8_dec_aes_gcm_full() API to bypass authentication checks and manipulate the protected data, thereby enabling unauthorized access and tampering.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating the CVE-2023-26084 vulnerability is crucial to safeguard systems from potential security risks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediate steps to address this vulnerability include implementing security patches or updates provided by the software vendor. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for any signs of unauthorized access or manipulation can help detect potential exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long run, organizations should emphasize secure coding practices, regularly update software components, conduct thorough security assessments, and train employees on cybersecurity best practices to enhance overall system resilience against such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

It is essential for users of affected systems to apply the necessary patches or updates released by Arm to remediate the CVE-2023-26084 vulnerability. Timely installation of security fixes can help mitigate the risk of exploitation and enhance the overall security posture of the system.