Critical Timing Side Channel Vulnerability in OpenSSL and Node.js Packages
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-0734: The OpenSSL DSA signature algorithm has been shown to be vulnerable to a timing side channel attack. Affects nodejs versions < 10.14.0-r0. Fixed in 10.14.0-r0. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
OpenSSL is a widely-used library that provides cryptographic functions and protocols for secure communication over networks. It is integral to many applications, including web servers and client software. The affected versions of OpenSSL have a vulnerability that allows attackers to exploit timing variations in the DSA signature algorithm, potentially leading to the exposure of private keys. Node.js, which relies on OpenSSL for its cryptographic operations, is also impacted by this vulnerability, affecting applications built on this platform.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-0734, arises from a timing side channel attack on the DSA signature algorithm within OpenSSL. An attacker can exploit this flaw by analyzing the time taken to perform cryptographic operations, which may reveal information about the private key used in the signing process. This could lead to unauthorized access or data breaches, making it critical for users of affected versions to address the issue promptly. The vulnerability affects OpenSSL versions 1.1.1 and earlier, with a CVSS score of 5.9, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
10.14.0-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade nodejsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate patching is not feasible, consider implementing additional security measures such as rate limiting on cryptographic operations or using alternative algorithms that are not affected by timing attacks. However, these are not substitutes for applying the necessary updates.
Conclusion
The CVE-2018-0734 vulnerability poses a significant risk to applications using OpenSSL and Node.js. It is crucial to update to the patched versions to mitigate the risk of private key exposure. Regular monitoring and vulnerability management practices, such as using tools like Vulert, can help maintain the security of your applications.
See every vulnerability recorded for nodejs →
FAQ
CVE-2018-0734 is a vulnerability in OpenSSL that allows attackers to exploit timing variations in the DSA signature algorithm, potentially revealing private keys.
OpenSSL versions 1.1.1 and earlier are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Simply upload your manifest file, like package-lock.json, to check for vulnerabilities.
The CVSS score for CVE-2018-0734 is 5.9, indicating a moderate severity level.
If you cannot update immediately, consider implementing security measures such as rate limiting on cryptographic operations or using alternative algorithms.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for nodejs.
