CVE-2019-13377 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Hostapd and wpa_supplicant versions from 2.x to 2.8 have a vulnerability in the way they implement SAE and EAP-pwd protocols. This vulnerability can be exploited through side-channel attacks, which take advantage of timing differences and cache access patterns when Brainpool curves are employed. An attacker can potentially extract leaked information from these side-channels and use it to fully recover passwords.

Understanding CVE-2019-13377

This CVE involves vulnerabilities in the SAE and EAP-pwd implementations in hostapd and wpa_supplicant versions 2.x to 2.8.

What is CVE-2019-13377?

The implementations of SAE and EAP-pwd in hostapd and wpa_supplicant 2.x through 2.8 are vulnerable to side-channel attacks due to observable timing differences and cache access patterns when Brainpool curves are used. This can lead to leaked information that enables full password recovery.

The Impact of CVE-2019-13377

Attackers can exploit side-channel attacks to extract sensitive information and potentially recover passwords.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13377

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the way SAE and EAP-pwd protocols are implemented in hostapd and wpa_supplicant versions 2.x to 2.8, allowing for side-channel attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Hostapd and wpa_supplicant versions 2.x to 2.8

Exploitation Mechanism

Side-channel attacks taking advantage of timing differences and cache access patterns when Brainpool curves are used.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-13377 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update hostapd and wpa_supplicant to patched versions.
Monitor for any unusual activities on the network.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password policies.
Regularly update and patch software to address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the respective vendors to mitigate the vulnerability.