SUBJECT: Mitigating CVE-2001-1141: Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) Vulnerability in OpenSSL
TECH STACK: OpenSSL
DATE(S) ISSUED: 07/10/2001
NVD Last Modified: 10/09/2017
CRITICALITY: MEDIUM (5.0)
OVERVIEW: CVE-2001-1141 is a vulnerability in the Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) used by OpenSSL versions before 0.9.6b. This vulnerability allows attackers to predict future pseudo-random numbers generated by the application, which could be used to:
- Decrypt encrypted communications
- Forge digital signatures
- Predict session keys used for secure connections
SOLUTION/MITIGATION:
- Upgrade OpenSSL: The most effective and recommended mitigation is to upgrade to a version of OpenSSL that is not affected by the vulnerability. This includes versions 0.9.6b and later.
- Consult the vendor documentation for your specific software to determine the appropriate upgrade process and download the necessary patches or updates.
- Avoid using small PRNG requests: If immediate upgrade is not possible, avoid using small PRNG requests within your application. However, this is not a complete solution and should only be used as a temporary measure while awaiting the upgrade.
Confirmation & Additional Information:
- Once you have upgraded OpenSSL, verify the new version by running the following command: openssl version.
- Consider the security implications of using software that is no longer supported by the vendor. Outdated software may have additional vulnerabilities and may not receive critical security updates.
- Regularly update your systems and software to address security vulnerabilities.
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