x509-validation does not enforce pathLenConstraint

x509-validation Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

19/07/2023

Disclosed on

N/A

Severity

Yes i

Fix available

Unrated

Severity

Not published

CVSS Score

HSEC-2023-0006: x509-validation does not enforce pathLenConstraint. Affects x509-validation versions >= 1.4.0, < 1.4.8. Fixed in 1.4.8. How to fix ↓

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Background

The x509-validation package is a component of the Hackage ecosystem. It provides functionality for validating X.509 certificates. X.509 is a standard format for public key certificates used in various cryptographic applications. The x509-validation package is responsible for ensuring the validity and integrity of these certificates.

Vulnerability Detail

The x509-validation package, prior to version 1.4.8, suffers from a vulnerability where it does not enforce the pathLenConstraint value. This means that constrained Certification Authorities (CAs) could mistakenly or intentionally issue CAs below the maximum depth. As a result, x509-validation would accept certificates issued by these unauthorized intermediate CAs. This vulnerability poses a risk to the integrity and security of the certificate validation process, potentially allowing for the acceptance of invalid or compromised certificates.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.4.8

This is the first release that contains the fix.

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability.

Conclusion

The x509-validation package prior to version 1.4.8 is vulnerable to a pathLenConstraint enforcement issue. This vulnerability allows for the acceptance of certificates issued by unauthorized intermediate CAs, potentially compromising the integrity and security of the certificate validation process. It is recommended to update the package to version 1.4.8 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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