CVE-2001-0856 in 4758
Summary
by MITRE
Common Cryptographic Architecture (CCA) in IBM 4758 allows an attacker with physical access to the system and Combine_Key_Parts permissions, to steal DES and 3DES keys by using a brute force attack to create a 3DES exporter key.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-0856 represents a significant cryptographic weakness within IBM's Common Cryptographic Architecture implementation on the IBM 4758 system. This flaw specifically targets the key management and cryptographic processing capabilities of the device, which serves as a hardware security module for cryptographic operations in enterprise environments. The vulnerability arises from insufficient protection mechanisms within the cryptographic architecture that fails to adequately prevent unauthorized key extraction even when proper access controls are in place.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits a specific weakness in how the system handles key derivation and export processes. An attacker with physical access to the system and possessing Combine_Key_Parts permissions can leverage brute force methodologies to reconstruct 3DES exporter keys from DES keys. This attack vector demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the cryptographic design where the system does not properly enforce key derivation restrictions or implement adequate entropy requirements for key generation. The vulnerability specifically affects the export key generation process where 3DES keys can be derived from DES keys through systematic brute force attempts, bypassing the intended security boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple cryptographic compromise as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the IBM 4758 system. Organizations relying on this hardware security module for protecting sensitive data and cryptographic operations face potential exposure of their entire cryptographic infrastructure. The attack requires only physical access and specific permissions, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security controls may be insufficient. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of cryptographic operations, potentially allowing attackers to decrypt sensitive communications, forge digital signatures, or impersonate legitimate system components.
The security implications of CVE-2001-0856 align with CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms and improper key management practices. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1583.001, which covers the development of cryptographic tools and techniques for unauthorized access. Organizations implementing IBM 4758 systems should consider immediate remediation through firmware updates, enhanced physical security controls, and comprehensive key management reviews. The attack scenario demonstrates the critical importance of proper key derivation functions and the necessity of implementing robust entropy sources for cryptographic key generation. Mitigation strategies should include strengthening access controls, implementing additional authentication layers, and ensuring that cryptographic operations cannot be exploited through brute force methods. The vulnerability highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of cryptographic implementations and proper adherence to cryptographic best practices as outlined in NIST SP 800-57 and other industry standards for cryptographic key management.