Critical Vulnerability in libgcrypt: Side-Channel Attack Risk
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-0379: Libgcrypt before 1.8.1 does not properly consider Curve25519 side-channel attacks, which makes it easier for attackers to discover a secret key, related to cipher/ecc.c and mpi/ec.c. Affects libgcrypt versions < 1.7.9-r0. Fixed in 1.7.9-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
libgcrypt is a cryptographic library that provides various cryptographic functions, including encryption and decryption algorithms. It is widely used in software applications that require secure data handling. The library is designed to be efficient and secure, but it has been found vulnerable to specific side-channel attacks that could compromise secret keys.
Vulnerability Detail
Libgcrypt versions prior to 1.8.1 are susceptible to Curve25519 side-channel attacks. This vulnerability allows attackers to potentially discover secret keys through timing or other side-channel information. The issue originates from improper handling of cryptographic operations in the library's source code, particularly in the files cipher/ecc.c and mpi/ec.c. If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, making it critical for users to address it promptly.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.7.9-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade libgcryptTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider implementing additional security measures such as using alternative cryptographic libraries or enhancing system monitoring to detect unusual activities that may indicate an attack.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in libgcrypt poses a significant risk due to potential side-channel attacks that could compromise secret keys. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version to mitigate this risk. For those unable to update immediately, implementing workarounds and monitoring for suspicious activities is recommended.
See every vulnerability recorded for libgcrypt →
FAQ
libgcrypt is a cryptographic library that provides essential cryptographic functions for secure data handling in software applications.
The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit side-channel attacks to potentially discover secret keys used in cryptographic operations.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.5, indicating a high level of risk.
If you cannot update immediately, consider using alternative cryptographic libraries or enhancing monitoring for unusual activities.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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