Platform
curl
Component
curl
Fixed in
7.52.2
CVE-2016-9594 describes a vulnerability in cURL versions 7.52.0 through 7.52.1. This flaw stems from an uninitialized random number generator within cURL's internal functions. The use of a weak or non-existent random value can compromise the security of operations relying on it, potentially leading to predictable behavior and exploitation. The vulnerability was published in 2018 and a fix is available in version 7.52.2.
The core of the vulnerability lies in the use of an uninitialized random number generator. When a secure operation requires a random value (e.g., generating a session key, encrypting data), the lack of proper initialization can result in a predictable sequence. An attacker who can observe or influence these operations could potentially deduce the random value, leading to a compromise of the system's security. This could manifest as unauthorized access to sensitive data, the ability to forge requests, or even the execution of arbitrary code depending on how cURL is integrated into the application. While the direct impact is dependent on the specific application using cURL, the potential for exploitation is significant.
CVE-2016-9594 is not currently listed on the CISA KEV catalog. Public proof-of-concept exploits are not widely available, suggesting a lower probability of active exploitation. However, the vulnerability's nature – predictable random numbers – makes it a potential target for sophisticated attackers. The vulnerability was disclosed publicly in 2018, and while it hasn't seen widespread exploitation, the potential for future attacks remains.
Exploit Status
CVSS Vector
The primary mitigation for CVE-2016-9594 is to upgrade to cURL version 7.52.2 or later. If upgrading immediately is not feasible, consider implementing temporary workarounds. While difficult to implement directly, ensuring that any applications using cURL are not relying on its random number generation for critical security functions can reduce the risk. Carefully review application code to identify any dependencies on cURL's random number generation. Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. After upgrading, confirm the fix by verifying the cURL version using curl --version and confirming that the affected functions are no longer being called with predictable random values (if possible).
Update to version 7.52.2 or later to mitigate the vulnerability. This update corrects the uninitialized randomness issue in libcurl, thus preventing potential attacks that exploit weak random values.
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CVE-2016-9594 is a medium severity vulnerability affecting cURL versions 7.52.0 through 7.52.1. It arises from an uninitialized random number generator, potentially leading to predictable values and security compromises.
If you are using cURL versions 7.52.0 or 7.52.1, you are potentially affected by this vulnerability. Check your cURL version using curl --version.
The recommended fix is to upgrade to cURL version 7.52.2 or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, review application code to minimize reliance on cURL's random number generation.
While there are no widespread reports of active exploitation, the vulnerability's nature makes it a potential target for sophisticated attackers. Continuous monitoring is advised.
Refer to the cURL security advisory for detailed information: https://curl.se/security/advisories.
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