7.5
CWE
310
Advisory Published
Updated

CVE-2008-5659

First published: Wed Dec 17 2008(Updated: )

The gnu.java.security.util.PRNG class in GNU Classpath 0.97.2 and earlier uses a predictable seed based on the system time, which makes it easier for context-dependent attackers to conduct brute force attacks against cryptographic routines that use this class for randomness, as demonstrated against DSA private keys.

Credit: cve@mitre.org

Affected SoftwareAffected VersionHow to fix
GNU Classpath=0.14
GNU Classpath=0.90
GNU Classpath=0.15
GNU Classpath=0.97.1
GNU Classpath<=0.97.2
GNU Classpath=0.17
GNU Classpath=0.16
GNU Classpath=0.9
GNU Classpath=0.96.1
GNU Classpath=0.92
GNU Classpath=0.12
GNU Classpath=0.18
GNU Classpath=0.11
GNU Classpath=0.6
GNU Classpath=0.97
GNU Classpath=0.93
GNU Classpath=0.7
GNU Classpath=0.95
GNU Classpath=0.96
GNU Classpath=0.91
GNU Classpath=0.19
GNU Classpath=0.13
GNU Classpath=0.10
GNU Classpath=0.20
GNU Classpath=0.8

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the severity of CVE-2008-5659?

    CVE-2008-5659 is considered a medium severity vulnerability due to its potential to facilitate brute force attacks.

  • How do I fix CVE-2008-5659?

    To fix CVE-2008-5659, upgrade to GNU Classpath version later than 0.97.2 that uses a more secure random number generation method.

  • Which versions of GNU Classpath are affected by CVE-2008-5659?

    CVE-2008-5659 affects GNU Classpath versions 0.14 and earlier, including all versions up to and including 0.97.2.

  • What type of vulnerability is CVE-2008-5659?

    CVE-2008-5659 is a cryptographic vulnerability that arises from predictable seed generation in random number generation.

  • Who could be affected by CVE-2008-5659?

    Developers using vulnerable versions of GNU Classpath for cryptographic operations could be affected, as attackers may exploit this vulnerability to compromise security.

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