CVE-2014-4191 in RSA BSAFE-C Toolkits
Summary
by MITRE
The TLS implementation in EMC RSA BSAFE-C Toolkits (aka Share for C and C++) sends a long series of random bytes during use of the Dual_EC_DRBG algorithm, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain plaintext from TLS sessions by recovering the algorithm s inner state, a different issue than CVE-2007-6755.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-4191 represents a critical weakness in the cryptographic implementation of EMC RSA BSAFE-C Toolkits, specifically affecting the Dual_EC_DRBG algorithm used within TLS sessions. This flaw exists within the cryptographic toolkit that provides secure communication capabilities for C and C++ applications, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on these security libraries for protecting sensitive data transmissions. The vulnerability stems from the implementation's deviation from secure random number generation practices, creating a pathway for attackers to compromise the confidentiality of encrypted communications.
The technical flaw manifests through the Dual_EC_DRBG algorithm's behavior of sending extensive sequences of random bytes during TLS operations. This algorithm, which was designed with potential backdoor implications, exhibits predictable patterns when generating random numbers for cryptographic operations. The excessive random byte transmission creates a vulnerability that allows remote attackers to perform state recovery attacks against the algorithm's internal state, effectively breaking the cryptographic security guarantees that TLS is meant to provide. This issue operates through a different mechanism than the previously identified CVE-2007-6755, which focused on different aspects of the Dual_EC_DRBG algorithm's implementation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple cryptographic weakness, as it directly compromises the confidentiality of TLS sessions that utilize the affected toolkit. Attackers can exploit this flaw to recover plaintext communications, potentially accessing sensitive data such as passwords, personal information, financial transactions, and proprietary business data. The vulnerability particularly affects systems where the EMC RSA BSAFE-C Toolkits are integrated into network security solutions, web applications, and enterprise communication platforms. Organizations using these toolkits may experience unauthorized data access, potential regulatory compliance violations, and significant reputational damage when such attacks are successfully executed.
The remediation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate action to replace or update the affected cryptographic toolkit implementations. Organizations should migrate away from the Dual_EC_DRBG algorithm to standardized alternatives such as the Hash_DRBG or HMAC_DRBG algorithms that do not exhibit these backdoor characteristics. System administrators must conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify all applications and systems using the vulnerable toolkit, followed by comprehensive testing of updated implementations. The fix aligns with industry standards including the NIST SP 800-90A guidance for random number generation and addresses recommendations from the CWE-327 weakness category related to the use of weak cryptographic algorithms. Additionally, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of implementing the ATT&CK framework's techniques for credential access and defense evasion, as attackers can leverage such weaknesses to maintain persistent access to compromised systems while remaining undetected.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the critical importance of avoiding cryptographic libraries with known backdoor characteristics, particularly those that have been flagged by security researchers and government agencies. The flaw demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation details in cryptographic libraries can create fundamental security weaknesses that undermine the entire security architecture of affected systems. Organizations should implement continuous monitoring for cryptographic vulnerabilities and establish robust processes for evaluating and updating cryptographic implementations to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.