CVE-2023-50980 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2023-50980, a denial of service vulnerability in Crypto++ through version 8.9.0, allowing attackers to crash applications via DER public-key data manipulation.
A detailed overview of CVE-2023-50980 focusing on the vulnerability in Crypto++ that leads to a denial of service attack.
Understanding CVE-2023-50980
In this section, we will delve into the specifics of CVE-2023-50980 and its implications.
What is CVE-2023-50980?
The vulnerability in Crypto++ (cryptopp) through version 8.9.0 allows malicious actors to trigger a denial of service (application crash) by manipulating DER public-key data for an F(2^m) curve. This occurs when the degree of each term in the polynomial is not strictly decreasing.
The Impact of CVE-2023-50980
The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables attackers to disrupt the availability and stability of systems that rely on Crypto++ for cryptographic operations.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-50980
This section covers the technical aspects of CVE-2023-50980, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises in gf2n.cpp in Crypto++ through version 8.9.0, posing a threat of application crashes through manipulation of DER public-key data.
Affected Systems and Versions
The issue affects all versions of Crypto++ up to 8.9.0. Users of this library are at risk of exploitation if proper precautions are not taken.
Exploitation Mechanism
By exploiting the flaw in handling DER public-key data for an F(2^m) curve, attackers can cause a denial of service by mismanaging the polynomial degree ordering.
Mitigation and Prevention
In this section, we discuss the necessary steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-50980 and prevent potential attacks.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Crypto++ to a patched version to prevent exploitation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation can help mitigate the risk of crashes.
Long-Term Security Practices
Maintaining regular software updates and staying informed about security advisories can aid in preventing such vulnerabilities in the long run.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches released by Crypto++ to address CVE-2023-50980 and other identified security issues.