Latent_entropy Vulnerability in gcc-plugins
Summary
GSD-2022-1002387: gcc-plugins: latent_entropy: use /dev/urandom. Affects Kernel versions >= 38addce8b600ca335dc86fa3d48c890f1c6fa1f4, < 846737e63cfe7ee81788c4ca9babe0d3bf687677. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The gcc-plugins package is a collection of plugins for the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC). These plugins provide additional functionality and analysis capabilities to the compiler. The latent_entropy plugin, included in gcc-plugins, is responsible for generating random numbers for various purposes within the compiler. However, it has been discovered that the plugin uses the insecure /dev/random as the source of randomness, which can lead to predictable and weak random numbers.
Vulnerability Detail
The latent_entropy vulnerability in gcc-plugins arises from the use of /dev/random as the source of randomness. /dev/random is known to block when the entropy pool is depleted, leading to potential delays in generating random numbers. This can have security implications, as weak or predictable random numbers can be exploited by attackers to compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the system. The vulnerability was introduced in Linux Kernel version v4.9 and has been fixed in version v4.14.276.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If updating the Linux Kernel is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to modify the code of the latent_entropy plugin to use /dev/urandom instead of /dev/random. Here is an example of the code modification:
- Open the file containing the latent_entropy plugin code.
- Locate the section where random numbers are generated.
- Replace any instances of /dev/random with /dev/urandom.
- Recompile and reinstall the gcc-plugins package.
Please note that this workaround is not a permanent solution and should be followed by updating the Linux Kernel as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The latent_entropy vulnerability in gcc-plugins poses a risk of weak and predictable random numbers, which can be exploited by attackers. It is crucial to update the Linux Kernel to version v4.14.276 or later to fix the vulnerability. In the meantime, a temporary workaround is available by modifying the code of the latent_entropy plugin to use /dev/urandom. For further assistance and support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The latent_entropy vulnerability can result in weak and predictable random numbers, which can be exploited by attackers to compromise the security of the system. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security incidents.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your system is affected by the latent_entropy vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file and Vulert will analyze it for any known vulnerabilities, including the latent_entropy vulnerability.
Yes, the latent_entropy vulnerability has been fixed in Linux Kernel version v4.14.276. It is recommended to update the kernel to this version or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Yes, if updating the Linux Kernel is not immediately feasible, you can modify the code of the latent_entropy plugin to use /dev/urandom instead of /dev/random. However, this workaround is temporary and should be followed by updating the kernel as soon as possible.
At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting the latent_entropy vulnerability. However, it is important to promptly update the Linux Kernel to mitigate the vulnerability and stay protected against potential future exploits.
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