CVE-2023-32098 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-32098, a vulnerability affecting Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK versions 4.2.1 and earlier.

Understanding CVE-2023-32098

This section explores the nature and impact of the key duplication vulnerability in Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK.

What is CVE-2023-32098?

The CVE-2023-32098 vulnerability involves the compiler's removal of buffer clearing in the

sli_se_sign_message

function within Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK version 4.2.1 and earlier. This leads to the duplication of key material to RAM.

The Impact of CVE-2023-32098

The vulnerability has a CVSSv3.1 base score of 5.3, with a medium severity rating. It poses a high confidentiality impact as key material duplication to RAM can expose sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-32098

In this section, we delve into the specifics of the vulnerability including the description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the compiler's omission of buffer clearing in the

sli_se_sign_message

function, facilitating the inadvertent duplication of key material to RAM.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK versions 4.2.1 and earlier are impacted by this vulnerability, leaving systems susceptible to key material exposure.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability involves leveraging the key duplication to RAM to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in the affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2023-32098.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately update the Silicon Labs Gecko Platform SDK to version 4.2.2 or higher to address the key duplication vulnerability and prevent unauthorized access to key material.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, including proper buffer handling and memory management, to minimize the risk of similar vulnerabilities in future software development.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor vendor advisories and update mechanisms to ensure timely application of security patches that address known vulnerabilities.