CVE-2009-0255 in TYPO3
Summary
by MITRE
The System extension Install tool in TYPO3 4.0.0 through 4.0.9, 4.1.0 through 4.1.7, and 4.2.0 through 4.2.3 creates the encryption key with an insufficiently random seed, which makes it easier for attackers to crack the key.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0255 affects TYPO3 content management systems across multiple version ranges including 4.0.0 through 4.0.9, 4.1.0 through 4.1.7, and 4.2.0 through 4.2.3. This weakness resides within the System extension Install tool which is responsible for generating cryptographic encryption keys used throughout the TYPO3 framework. The flaw represents a significant security risk as it undermines the fundamental cryptographic integrity of the system by utilizing a weak random number generation process during key creation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the insufficiently random seed used in the encryption key generation algorithm. When cryptographic keys are generated using predictable or poorly randomized seeds, attackers can potentially reverse-engineer or brute-force the encryption keys through statistical analysis or pattern recognition techniques. This weakness directly maps to CWE-330, which specifically addresses the use of insufficiently random values in cryptographic contexts, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.004 related to unsecured credentials. The inadequate entropy in the random number generator means that the cryptographic strength of the generated keys is significantly weakened, making them vulnerable to various attack vectors including dictionary attacks, rainbow table generation, and statistical analysis methods that exploit the predictability of the random seed source.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple cryptographic weakness to encompass potential system compromise and data exposure. An attacker who successfully cracks the encryption key could gain unauthorized access to sensitive system information, potentially leading to full system compromise. This vulnerability affects the core security infrastructure of TYPO3 installations, as encryption keys are typically used for securing user sessions, database connections, and other critical system communications. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the vulnerability exists in the installation tool itself, meaning that any TYPO3 system running affected versions could be at risk from the moment of installation, potentially allowing attackers to establish persistent access or escalate privileges within the system.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of TYPO3 where the random number generation has been properly addressed. The fix typically involves replacing the weak random seed with a cryptographically secure random number generator that utilizes proper entropy sources such as /dev/urandom on Unix-like systems or the Windows CryptGenRandom API on Windows platforms. Security administrators should also conduct thorough audits of existing encryption keys within affected systems and regenerate them using secure random number generators. Additionally, implementing proper key rotation policies and monitoring for unauthorized access attempts can help mitigate the risk associated with compromised keys. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper random number generation in cryptographic systems and serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor implementation flaws in security-critical components can have severe consequences for overall system security posture.