CVE-2014-0224 in Tekelec HLR Router
Summary
by MITRE
OpenSSL before 0.9.8za, 1.0.0 before 1.0.0m, and 1.0.1 before 1.0.1h does not properly restrict processing of ChangeCipherSpec messages, which allows man-in-the-middle attackers to trigger use of a zero-length master key in certain OpenSSL-to-OpenSSL communications, and consequently hijack sessions or obtain sensitive information, via a crafted TLS handshake, aka the "CCS Injection" vulnerability.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2025
The CVE-2014-0224 vulnerability represents a critical flaw in OpenSSL implementations that fundamentally undermines the security of TLS communications. This vulnerability specifically targets the processing of ChangeCipherSpec messages within the TLS protocol handshake mechanism, creating a pathway for sophisticated man-in-the-middle attacks. The flaw affects multiple OpenSSL versions including 0.9.8za and earlier, 1.0.0m and earlier, and 1.0.1h and earlier releases, making it one of the most widespread TLS vulnerabilities in recent history. The vulnerability operates by exploiting improper validation of ChangeCipherSpec messages, which are integral components of the TLS handshake process that signal the transition from unencrypted to encrypted communication. When exploited, this vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate the handshake process and force the use of a zero-length master key, effectively nullifying the encryption protections that should secure the communication channel.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires attackers to craft a specific TLS handshake that includes malicious ChangeCipherSpec messages. This attack vector specifically targets the OpenSSL implementation's failure to properly validate the sequence and content of these messages during the handshake process. The flaw allows an attacker positioned between two communicating parties to inject malicious ChangeCipherSpec messages that can cause the application to use a zero-length master key instead of the properly negotiated key. This creates a situation where the encryption keys become effectively useless, enabling attackers to decrypt communications, inject malicious data, or completely hijack the session. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited in scenarios involving OpenSSL-to-OpenSSL communications, where both parties are using vulnerable versions of the library. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in key generation and management processes. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it highly accessible to threat actors.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0224 extends far beyond simple data interception, encompassing complete session hijacking and potential data compromise across numerous applications and services. Systems utilizing vulnerable OpenSSL versions become susceptible to attacks that can result in the exposure of sensitive information including authentication credentials, personal data, financial information, and proprietary business data. The vulnerability affects a broad range of services including web servers, email servers, database connections, and any application that relies on OpenSSL for TLS encryption. The zero-length master key effectively renders the encrypted communication channel useless, as the encryption becomes trivially breakable. This vulnerability has been classified under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as part of the Credential Access and Defense Evasion tactics, specifically leveraging the technique of "Tunneling" to establish malicious communication channels. Organizations running vulnerable systems face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory violations, and loss of customer trust. The widespread adoption of OpenSSL across the internet means that countless services and applications were potentially exposed to this vulnerability, creating an enormous attack surface that threat actors could exploit.
Mitigation of CVE-2014-0224 requires immediate deployment of patched OpenSSL versions and comprehensive system updates across all affected infrastructure. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to OpenSSL versions 0.9.8za, 1.0.0m, or 1.0.1h and later, which contain the necessary fixes for the ChangeCipherSpec processing flaw. The patch implementation should include thorough testing to ensure compatibility with existing applications and services. Network administrators must also consider implementing additional monitoring and detection mechanisms to identify potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable OpenSSL versions and establish remediation schedules. The mitigation strategy should also include reviewing and updating security policies to address the specific threat landscape created by this vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Furthermore, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to verify the effectiveness of the applied patches and identify any remaining vulnerabilities in the cryptographic infrastructure. The remediation process must also include updating all dependent applications and services that rely on OpenSSL for their TLS implementations to ensure complete protection against this and similar vulnerabilities.