CVE-2013-2260 in Cryptocat
Summary
by MITRE
Cryptocat before 2.0.22: Cryptocat.random() Function Array Key has Entropy Weakness
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2260 affects Cryptocat versions prior to 2.0.22 and specifically targets the Cryptocat.random() function which is responsible for generating cryptographic randomness. This weakness resides in the array key generation mechanism used within the random number generation process, creating a significant entropy deficiency that undermines the cryptographic security of the application. The flaw represents a critical weakness in the cryptographic implementation that could potentially allow adversaries to predict or manipulate random values used for cryptographic operations.
The technical implementation of the vulnerability stems from insufficient entropy in the array key generation process within the Cryptocat.random() function. When cryptographic systems rely on pseudo-random number generators, the quality of entropy directly impacts the security of the generated keys and cryptographic operations. In this case, the array key used in the random generation process does not provide adequate randomness, leading to predictable patterns that can be exploited by attackers. The weakness manifests when the system generates cryptographic keys or random values for secure communications, where the compromised entropy allows for reduced security margins and increased attack surface. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-330, which addresses the use of insufficiently random values in cryptographic contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple cryptographic weakness to potentially compromise the entire secure communication framework of Cryptocat users. When random number generation is predictable or lacks sufficient entropy, it creates opportunities for adversaries to perform statistical analysis or brute force attacks against cryptographic keys. This could enable man-in-the-middle attacks, key recovery, or session hijacking within the secure communication channels that Cryptocat is designed to protect. The vulnerability affects all cryptographic operations that depend on the compromised random number generation function, potentially exposing user communications and data to unauthorized access. According to ATT&CK framework, this weakness maps to T1583.001 which covers the development of malware and T1583.002 which addresses the development of tools, as it represents a fundamental weakness that could be exploited by attackers to compromise secure communications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2260 require immediate upgrade to Cryptocat version 2.0.22 or later, which contains the corrected random number generation implementation. Organizations and individuals using Cryptocat should also implement additional security measures including monitoring for suspicious network activity and ensuring all communications are properly authenticated. The fix addresses the entropy weakness by improving the array key generation process to provide sufficient randomness for cryptographic operations. Security teams should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify any systems still running affected versions and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place. Additionally, users should be educated about the importance of keeping cryptographic software updated and the potential risks associated with using vulnerable versions of secure communication tools. The remediation process should also include verification that the updated version properly implements cryptographic best practices and provides adequate entropy for all random number generation requirements.