CVE-2018-19608 : Security Advisory and Response

Arm Mbed TLS versions prior to 2.14.1, 2.7.8, and 2.1.17 are vulnerable to a security flaw allowing local attackers to retrieve RSA decryption messages.

Understanding CVE-2018-19608

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Arm Mbed TLS versions that can be exploited by local attackers without privileged access.

What is CVE-2018-19608?

The vulnerability in Arm Mbed TLS versions prior to 2.14.1, 2.7.8, and 2.1.17 enables unprivileged local attackers to recover the original message of RSA decryption in specific cipher suites.

The Impact of CVE-2018-19608

The vulnerability allows attackers to retrieve plaintext of RSA decryption, affecting the confidentiality of encrypted data.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-19608

Arm Mbed TLS versions prior to 2.14.1, 2.7.8, and 2.1.17 are susceptible to a security flaw that enables unauthorized access to RSA decryption messages.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows local unprivileged attackers to recover plaintext of RSA decryption used in specific cipher suites.

Affected Systems and Versions

Arm Mbed TLS versions prior to 2.14.1
Arm Mbed TLS versions prior to 2.7.8
Arm Mbed TLS versions prior to 2.1.17

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers without privileged access can exploit the vulnerability to retrieve the original message of RSA decryption in cipher suites using RSA without (EC)DH(E).

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-19608, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Arm Mbed TLS to version 2.14.1, 2.7.8, or 2.1.17 or later.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or decryption attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Arm Mbed TLS to the latest versions.
Implement access controls to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Conduct security training to educate users on best practices.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Arm Mbed TLS to mitigate the vulnerability.