CVE-2021-39182 in EnroCrypt
Summary
by MITRE • 11/08/2021
EnroCrypt is a Python module for encryption and hashing. Prior to version 1.1.4, EnroCrypt used the MD5 hashing algorithm in the hashing file. Beginners who are unfamiliar with hashes can face problems as MD5 is considered an insecure hashing algorithm. The vulnerability is patched in v1.1.4 of the product. As a workaround, users can remove the `MD5` hashing function from the file `hashing.py`.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2021
CVE-2021-39182 represents a critical cryptographic weakness in the EnroCrypt Python module that persisted through versions prior to 1.1.4. This vulnerability stems from the module's reliance on the MD5 hashing algorithm, which has been extensively documented as cryptographically broken and unsuitable for security-sensitive applications. The flaw demonstrates poor security hygiene in cryptographic implementation where developers failed to recognize that MD5 is vulnerable to collision attacks and should never be used for security purposes. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-327, which specifically addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms, and represents a direct violation of security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-131A and other cryptographic standards.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the hashing.py file where MD5 functions are improperly integrated into the encryption module's core functionality. This creates a dangerous precedent for users who may unknowingly rely on MD5 for password hashing, data integrity verification, or other security-critical operations. The weakness is particularly concerning because it targets developers who may be less experienced in cryptographic security practices, making them susceptible to deploying insecure code in production environments. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to create hash collisions, potentially leading to authentication bypasses, data tampering, or other malicious activities that leverage MD5's known weaknesses.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-39182 extends beyond simple cryptographic insecurity to encompass broader security risks for any system utilizing the vulnerable EnroCrypt module. Organizations deploying applications that incorporate this module may unknowingly introduce security vulnerabilities into their infrastructure, particularly in environments where password hashing or data integrity checks are performed using MD5. The vulnerability also reflects poorly on the module's security posture and demonstrates a lack of adherence to established security frameworks such as those outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically concerning the use of insecure cryptographic algorithms in application development. This weakness could enable adversaries to perform credential stuffing attacks, manipulate hash-based access controls, or conduct other cryptographic attacks that exploit MD5's fundamental design flaws.
The remediation approach for this vulnerability requires immediate action to update to version 1.1.4 or later, which properly addresses the MD5 implementation issue. The suggested workaround of manually removing the MD5 hashing function from hashing.py provides a temporary mitigation strategy for users unable to upgrade immediately. However, this approach requires careful attention to ensure complete removal of all MD5 references and proper implementation of secure alternatives such as SHA-256 or SHA-3 algorithms. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive code reviews to identify any other potential uses of weak cryptographic functions within their systems. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of cryptographic security in software development and the necessity of following established security standards and guidelines to prevent similar issues in future implementations.